Doris M. Erickson

Doris Erickson (Willis), 89, of Rockford, IL by way of Weatherford, TX passed away on February 4, 2025. She was born October 29, 1935, to Hazel (Netherton) and Howard Willis. Doris was a resident of the Pythian Home and later went on to school at Weatherford College. She met her husband, Charles Erickson, and married on February 8, 1958, and moved to Rockford, IL which she proudly called home for the rest of her life.

Doris was a cowgirl at heart and touched the lives of many. She enjoyed the outdoors, driving through the parks, and experiencing nature for all its beauty. Above all, Doris loved the time she spent with her family, enjoying her children’s, grandchildren’s, and great-grandchildren's extracurriculars, such as school activities and sporting events, which she seldom missed. She took pride in her yard and loved working in the garden. She was an amazing woman who put her faith and family above all else.

She is survived by her three children, Connie Bernard, Kay Ahrens, and Neal Erickson (Laura Grubb); sisters, Betty and Jo; grandchildren, Brandi Alberts (Ryan Stanley), Jaci Martinez, Jarred Bernard (Chelsea Bernard), Cody Ahrens (Elivia Ahrens); great-grandchildren, Gabby Martinez (Talon Madera), Maddie Martinez, Zach Martinez, Anthony Martinez, Allana Bernard, Ellie Bernard, Jack Bernard, and most recent addition to the family, Berkley Ahrens.

Predeceased by her husband, Charles Erickson; son-in-law, Bryce Ahrens; parents, Howard and Hazel Willis; sister, Gene; brothers, Bob and James.

A funeral mass will be held for Doris on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 2400 Bell Ave., Rockford, IL 61103, at 10:00 AM, with a visitation starting at 9:00 AM. Burial will immediately follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. 

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