Helen J. Erickson's Obituary
Helen Jane Erickson
(1939- 2026)
Helen Jane Erickson, age 86, of Wild Rose, WI, passed away on Monday May 11th, 2026 with her family by her side.
Helen was born in Union Grove, WI on July 21st,1939, the daughter of the late Everett and Margaret Whitley. Helen spent her elementary school years in Union Grove, WI and graduated from Union Grove High School in 1957. Helen went on to earn her teaching degree from Racine-Kenosha County Teachers College in 1959. She married her high school sweetheart, Harry Erickson, on July 11th, 1959. Helen and Harry moved to Wild Rose, WI, and Helen continued her teaching career in Pine River, WI before starting their family.
Helen would always say she was a homemaker. That was Helen being modest. Her life’s work extended beyond raising a family. Together, Harry and Helen owned and operated numerous successful businesses including the family farm, Wautoma A&W for 48 years, Princeton and Wautoma Amish House stores, and the Westfield Amish House Market. Even up to her passing, Helen enjoyed visiting her stores, sampling new products, and engaging with customers. She was always looking for new ways to serve her customers and create a stronger business.
Helen lived out her Christian faith through acts of service and hospitality. She loved to learn and took inspiration from daily Bible readings and weekly sermons. Helen was an active member of the Wild Rose Baptist Church. She selflessly opened her home to missionaries, served in children ministries, and prepared church dinners. Through her generosity and kindness, she exemplified the love of Christ to those around her. She made everyone feel welcomed and at home.
The calling that defined Helen’s life was her commitment to be invested in the lives of her family. Helen was a devoted mother and committed companion. Helen relished her quiet times with Harry where they could dream up ideas for their businesses and family. Whether it was making meals for the boys, talking on the phone with her daughters multiple times a day, or caring for her husband, Helen was intentional to always connect, direct, or just be “Mom.” As her children began families of their own, Helen embraced her role as grandmother, and eventually great-grandmother, with the same love and devotion that defined every aspect of her life. Being “Grandma” brought her immense pride and happiness, and she treasured every moment spent creating memories with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Helen will be remembered for her spirited laugh, taking her grandchildren aside and telling her latest tale, her radiant joy, and above all, Helen’s crowning jewel, her faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Helen is survived by her husband of 66 years, Harry Erickson of Wild Rose, WI; her children: Jane (Ludwig) Wurtz, Barbara (David) Brooks, Robert Erickson, Sally Solis, Keith (Jennifer) Erickson; her grandchildren: Taylor (Preston) Purifoy, Tiffani (Jacob) Paltz, Lincoln Wurtz, Preston Wurtz, Abby (Keith) Brennan, Christina (Christopher) Basten, Bobby (Lexi) Brooks, Matthew (Lauren) Brooks, Brian (Kristin) Erickson, Josh Erickson, Evan (Grace) Erickson, Emily Solis, Jon Solis, Jacob Solis, Nicholas (Cayley) Erickson, Bryce Erickson, Carissa Erickson, Austin Erickson; and her great-grandchildren: Grayson, Adalynn, Harrison, Weston, Nora, Frances, Carter, Payton, Stevie, Macklin, Colson, Layne, Walker, Lainey, Truett, and Johanna. She is also survived by her brother, Tom (Nancy) Whitley; sister-in-law, Joan Erickson; and brother-in-law, Wayne Erickson; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends. Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Everett and Margaret Whitley, and her brother, Warren Whitley.
A funeral service will be held at the Wild Rose Baptist Church in Wild Rose, WI at 12:00 PM (Noon) on Thursday, May 21st, 2026, with Reverend Ben Terpstra officiating. Visitation will be held 10:00 AM to 11:45 AM preceding the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in her name can be made to the Wild Rose Baptist Church. Interment will be in the Wild Rose Union Cemetery, Town of Wautoma, WI.
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