Teresa and Banjo Erickson

HOUSTONTeresa Eileen Erickson and Dale "Banjo" Owen Erickson, 52 and 59, of Houston, died March 8 and March 10 at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse as a result of injuries sustained in an automobile accident.With unending devotion to one another, Teresa and Banjo Erickson complimented each other in many ways, but when it came to their selfless spirits they were cut from the same cloth. Both were generously gifted in their individual talents, but they were forever using their time and skills to enrich the lives of those around them in ways both great and small. While Teresa was more reserved and Banjo was more outgoing, they were both the sort of people who were warm, inviting, and genuine, drawing others near with ease. All who knew them will be forever changed for the better because of their unconditional love.It seems only fitting that Banjo's journey began during a time that was as vibrant as he was as the Nifty Fifties were marked by things like rock 'n roll music, shows like I Love Lucy, and blue jeans. Amidst this exciting time was the year 1955 when Ellsworth and Gloria (Mathison) Erickson were pleased to announce the birth of their baby boy they named Dale on December 12th. He was born in La Crosse, Wisconsin and was raised alongside his younger sister, Jeanne. When he was still a very young boy he acquired the nickname Banjo; although this nickname was always a bit of a mystery since he never played the banjo or even owned one! As a young boy, Banjo and his family moved to Houston, Minnesota, where he spent the remainder of his life. He attended local schools and graduated from Houston High School in 1974.While Banjo was busy living life, a young couple from Caledonia, Minnesota, was thrilled to welcome a baby girl into their hearts and home on January 3, 1963. Teresa Eileen was the oldest of three children born to her parents, Ronald and Sylvia (St. Mary) Skifton, and she was joined in her family by her younger sister, Melissa, and her younger brother, Steve. She attended kindergarten in Houston but moved to Mable in first grade. The Skifton family then moved back to Houston where Teresa went on to graduate from Houston High School in 1981. From there she went on to earn her Associate's Degree in Computer Science from La Crosse Technical College. Later, she received a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Winona State University and a Master's Degree in Servant Leadership from Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin.Not to be forgotten during Teresa's years in high school was her introduction to Banjo when she was a senior. Deeply in love, Banjo and Teresa were married on April 23, 1988, at Cross of Christ Lutheran Church in Houston. They were a perfect match as they complimented each other in numerous ways. Teresa was the quieter and reserved one while Banjo was the social and outgoing one. They appreciated each other's unique gifts. They never had children but always had a dog that was like an additional member of their family. In early 2000, Banjo completed their dream home on Charlie Road in Houston. It was quite an undertaking, and he greatly appreciated the help he received with plumbing and electrical from friends and family members.Throughout his life, Banjo was a bustle of activity whether he was building or fixing something. He also worked hard in a variety of industries as he spent time working on natural gas pipe lines, putting on siding and roofing, and also doing road work and bridge work for Houston Highway Department. He took great pride in fixing up an old convertible Buick Skylark with a white interior. Banjo was also into pyrotechnics and regularly assisted in running the firework shows for the campground in Lanesboro as well as for weddings, graduations, and other celebrations. He loved a good party and was in his prime when he was hosting and entertaining. Banjo commonly made 40 pounds of his famous "spit on ribs" for such occasions, and he never accepted money from others despite the fact that they were second to none.Teresa was also one to keep busy. She worked at La Crosse Feed and Seed and Wettstein's. The bulk of her time, however, was focused on her generous volunteer efforts. Teresa was an active member of Looney Valley Lutheran Church, and when the pastor was away, Teresa was willing to step up and lead services. She was also president of the Houston Food Shelf for three years. Although she loved her volunteer work, she did set limits to avoid spreading herself too thin as her main priority was to give 100 percent to everything. Teresa had been looking so forward to a 2016 mission trip to Tanzania with her church to help at a children's hospital. She got several others equally excited for the trip, which will now be taken in her honor. Even the vacations she planned were meaningful and a reflection of her servant's heart, as they were always centered on helping others in some way. To keep busy at home, she often knit prayer shawls and other gifts for family and friends. Teresa was always active and healthy as well as someone who enjoyed paying attention to eating nutritious meals and exercising. She especially liked walking their cockapoo, Blossom.All who knew Teresa and Banjo Erickson would agree that there was no one who met them and wasn't changed for the better. They both had a contagious zest for life, but it manifested itself in different ways as he had a larger than life personality while Teresa was more of the quiet type. Banjo and Teresa both were a vital part of their community, and both were well respected by all who were within their reach. They lived life to the fullest, and each used their gifts to bless others. Although Teresa and Banjo will be deeply missed, their loved ones find comfort in knowing that they are enjoying perfect peace in their eternal home.Teresa is survived by her parents, Ronald and Sylvia Skifton of Houston; sister, Melissa (Dean) Fitting of Money Creek; brother, Steve (Lisa) Skifton of Houston; nephew, Troy Fitting; and nieces, Casey Fitting and Natalie Skifton. She was preceded in death by her paternal and maternal grandparents. Banjo is survived by his sister, Jeanne (Jerry) Tippery of Houston; nephew, Gabe Tippery; and niece, Lizzy Tippery. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ellsworth and Gloria Erickson.Visitation for Teresa and Banjo will be held from 3-8pm, Monday, March 16, 2015 at Cross of Christ Lutheran Church in Houston. Funeral services will be 11am, Tuesday, March 17 at church with visitation one hour prior. Reverend Jan King of Looney Valley Lutheran Church will officiate. A reception will follow and private graveside services will be held at Silver Creek Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. Please share a memory of Teresa and Banjo and view their video tribute at www.hofffuneral.com.
Tribute video can be found at: videos.lifetributes.com/577938