Ronald L. Erichsen

Ronald Lee Erichsen, 85, passed away on November 14th, 2022, in the presence of his loving wife Shirley and 5 children after a long illness. 

Ron, born and raised near Cumberland, Maryland, “left the mountain” as a teenager to join the Navy with one of the top scores in the entrance exam allowing him to study electronics.  Following an honorable discharge, after achieving status as a Navy trainer electronics specialist with security clearance, Ron held several positions on various missile sites across the country, including a site where he met and wooed a pretty nurse named Shirley. Ron soon accepted a position as an electrical engineer on the linear accelerator at Stanford University and studied electronics engineering at San Diego State University in California.  Whilst in California and growing his family, Ron also worked at Lockheed as a guidance system engineer for the Atlas rocket, developing and monitoring test flights from Cape Canaveral.   Moving to Indiana to accept a staff position as a research electrical engineer in the high energy physics department at the University of Notre Dame, Ron continued to pursue his love of science and technology.  A professional inventor with multiple patents, Ron was a fiercely intelligent and independent problem solver.  Ron assisted with the building of University of Notre Dame University’s sub-light particle research facilities including National Laboratories at Brookhaven, Argon and Fermi, and eventually completed his amazing career at the University of Notre Dame in the campus building department where he specialized in constructing research labs.

Ron loved his family and was a devoted father and grandfather. He happily accepted the roles of advisor, building contractor, and auto repair man.  Ron was known for his green thumb, his immense love for birds, his vast historical knowledge, and unwavering willingness to help anyone in need.  First cradles for grandchildren, helping to build classrooms for Queen of Peace Church School, and playing Santa Claus all reflect Ron’s love and kindness.   Ron’s deep throated voice, warmth, and constant support will be deeply missed.

Ron is survived by his wife Shirley; five adult children, John Erichsen (Chelly), Kim Henke (David), Craig Erichsen, Theresa Erichsen, and Ledi Erichsen; eleven grandchildren; and one great grandchild. 

A Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 17, 2022 from 5-7 p.m. at the McGann Hay, Granger Chapel, 13260 SR 23, enter off Cherry Rd.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday, November 18, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. with visitation one hour prior at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 52553 Fir Rd., Granger. Burial will follow services.

Donations may be made to Tunnels to Towers or St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Please leave a condolence for the family at www.McGannHay.com.

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