Wally Eugene Erickson Jr.

Wally Eugene Erickson Jr., age 83, passed away peacefully on Friday, Dec. 29, 2023, from complications of pneumonia and COPD, with his son at his side.

Wally was born June 23, 1940, at St. Vincent Hospital in Billings, to Walter and Verna Erickson. He grew up in Billings with younger brother Richard and graduated from Billings Senior High School in 1960. He entered active-duty service with the U.S. Army in 1960 and served in Fort Ord, Monterey, California and Fitzsimons General Hospital in Denver, Colorado, where he was recognized by the commander with a letter of appreciation for “fine work” that enhanced the Psychiatry and Neurology programs.

Wally and Eileen Seiffert were married in 1961, during his time in Denver, where they had a son, Toby. Wally was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in 1963 and they moved back to Billings, where he worked at St. Vincent Hospital as Surgical Technician. They relocated to Denver, where Wally worked at University of Colorado as an artificial kidney technician, where development of that new technology was just beginning. They later divorced. He enjoyed sales and was a very good salesman. He pursued his sales career with many interesting opportunities including Biomet — replacement knee and hip manufacturer, Wallace Berry — Gifts and toys, and various insurance providers, kitchen cabinet sales with his dad Walter, carpet outlets and for the food and entertainment industry.

Wally enjoyed time outdoors, camping, skiing and volunteered for helping folks with disabilities through Eagle Mount at Red Lodge Mountain.

Wally was preceded in death by his brother and parents.

He is survived by his son, Toby Erickson; cousin Carol Waggener; nephew Chad Erickson (Kimberly); niece Stacy Harlan (Josh); nephew Ryan Erickson (Sara); and many other relatives and friends.

A service will be held at 12 p.m. Friday, June 21, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Ave, Billings. Burial with full military honors will follow at 2 p.m. in Yellowstone National Cemetery, Laurel.

Memorials may be made to the VFW, Eagle Mount, or the Elks Club Billings.