John Alfred Erickson III

John Alfred Erickson III (79) of Islamorada, Florida, Hayward, Wisconsin and Woodbury, MN, passed away on November 7, 2026.
A proud life long learner and Cadet, John graduated from St. Thomas Academy in 1964 before earning his degree from the College of St. Thomas. Following his education, he built his career as owner and CEO of IC System, Inc., building it into a successful business.
Affectionately known to his grandchildren as "Farfar" and "Wowie", John spent the last 22 years delighting everyone around him. Simply put, he was a good time. He loved hosting friends and family, was an excellent cook but equally appreciated a BK Whopper. His pockets were always full of dog treats and $2 bills. Much of the last third of his life was interrupted by illness, but he fought through the pain and never complained. He kept on spending time with all of us, kept finding ways to introduce his grandkids to new experiences like scuba diving, stage musicals, woodcarving, flying airplanes. He was so generous with everyone. He believed in education. He got his enjoyment out of watching others enjoy an experience, a good meal on him. He was a free spirit, an idea man. If you met him you remembered him. His many passions ranged from technology and science, chocolate cake, boats, water skiing, scuba diving, future studies, Andrew Lloyd Weber, gnomes, hummingbirds and house projects. He had an indomitable love of life.
He is survived by his loving partner, Mary Mathisen; his dear friend, childhood sweetheart and mother of his children, Barb Erickson; his children: John Erickson IV (Nicole), Jenny Jones (Vic Anderes), Jill Johannes (Eric), Kristy Campbell (Bryan), and Joey Erickson (Ashley); his 17 grandchildren: Jack, Olivia, Greta, Elin, Hubbell, Cal, Matty, Ben, Leo, Milo, Brody, Charlie, Teddy, Avery, Joey Jr., Max, and Tessa; his beloved cousins: Tom, Judy, Cindy and Wally (cousin-in-law); his honorary family, The Griffins; and his very dear best friends.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation on Monday, November 23 (his 80th birthday), from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary of the Lake Church, located at 4741 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN, followed by a funeral mass at 11:00 a.m. While the burial service will remain private for immediate family, all are warmly welcomed to head directly to 7 Vines Vineyard (101 Hwy 96 East, Dellwood, MN) immediately following the mass. A celebration of life and birthday party will be held there, and the family looks forward to raising a glass with everyone as soon as they arrive from the cemetery. In honor of John, donations may be sent to STA Random Acts of Kindness Fund.