Donna Joy Erickson

Donna J. Erickson age 74, of Detroit Lakes, MN died July 9, 2025, at Essentia Health – St. Mary’s Hospital in Detroit Lakes, MN.

Donna Joy Erickson was born August 29, 1950, in Valley City, ND to Delmar and Inga (Jorgenson) Sather. She grew up and received her education in Valley City, Graduating from Valley City High School in 1968. In 1980 she moved to Detroit Lakes where she worked for Picture Rock until it closed in 1986. Donna then worked for Emmanuel Nursing for the next twenty-four years, retiring in 2010.

On June 7, 1986 she was united in marriage to Walter Erickson at Richwood Lutheran Church. Because of this marriage Donna was lucky to be blessed with Walter’s daughters, Michelle Johnson, of El Paso, TX; and Jeanie (Kevin) Berns, of Spearfish, SD; four grandsons, Chad, Chris (Jessica), and Cody Johnson, of El Paso, TX; and Lukus Andringa, of Fargo, ND; 1 great granddaughter, Shelby Johnson; many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews; and her friend of fifty years, Judy Anderson.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Deloris Sather and Judy Horst; two brothers in law, Stan Horst and Allen Erickson; and her father and mother-in-law, Wallace and Alice Erickson.

Donna was a beacon of light in the lives of everyone who knew her. Her passion for helping and caring for others was evident in every aspect of her life, as in her receiving the Minnesota Health and Housing Alliance Caregiver of the Year Award in 1988. She dedicated herself to nurturing her family, always putting their needs first and ensuring that they felt loved and supported. Donna’s family was her greatest treasure, and her legacy will live on through the memories they created together.

Creativity flowed through Donna’s veins, and she expressed it beautifully through her exquisite wheat weaving, stunning flower arrangements, and captivating paintings. Each piece she crafted was a reflection of her vibrant spirit and her deep appreciation for the beauty in the world around her. Donna’s artistic talents brought joy not only to her family but also to her friends, who cherished her creations.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Alzheimer's Association or Lupus Research Foundation.