Douglas Edward Erickson, a beloved member of the Esparto, California community, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2026, at the age of 85. Surrounded by his loving family, Douglas leaves behind a legacy of community service and familial devotion.
Born on March 31, 1940, to Henning and Ethel (Anderson) Erickson in Albany, California, Douglas spent most of his life in Esparto. He graduated from Esparto High School in 1958, where he met his high school sweetheart, Lucille Richardson. The couple married in 1960, embarking on a life filled with love and commitment to their community.
Douglas dedicated much of his career to the California Department of Transportation, known as Cal Trans, where he worked for 31 years. This role enabled him to forge lasting friendships and contribute to the local infrastructure. Alongside Lucille, he was an active participant in the community, notably helping to establish the first Little League field at the Esparto Elementary School site.
Their commitment to youth and athletics continued as they supported the Esparto Athletic Boosters, raising funds to enhance the sports programs at Esparto High School. The couple could often be seen at their sons’ sporting events, cheering enthusiastically from the sidelines.
In his later years, Douglas enjoyed simple pleasures, such as walking his beloved dog, Tig, and tending to his yard and almond orchard. His family was central to his life, and he cherished spending time with them.
Douglas was preceded in death by his parents, Henning and Ethel, as well as his wife, Lucille. He is survived by his sister, Linnea Herger, and his two sons, Erik (Mary) and Philip (Karah). He also leaves behind grandchildren Morgan (Sam) Foster, Macy, Daren, and Kinsey, as well as great-grandchildren Buck and Colt Foster. His family also includes nieces and nephews Jodi Herger, Shawn (Lesley) Herger, and Tori (Paul) Matsumura.
Memorial Services and Community Contributions
Services to honor Douglas will take place at Capay Cemetery, located at 24727 County Road 22 in Esparto, on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 13:00. Following the service, a celebration of life will be held at the Esparto Boy Scout Cabin, where friends and family are invited to share memories and celebrate his impact on their lives.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Douglas’s memory to the Esparto Fire Department, P.O. Box 366, Esparto, CA 95627. This gesture reflects Douglas’s dedication to the community he loved and served throughout his life.
Douglas Edward Erickson will be remembered not only for his contributions to Esparto but also for the love and warmth he brought to his family and friends. His legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him.
