Edward H. Erickson, also known as “Big Ed,” died recently at his home on Point Dume, Malibu. He was 96.
Erickson was born in Chicago. He graduated from Illinois Institute of Technology where he studied architecture under famed German architect Mies Van Der Rohe.
Erickson was a captain in the U.S. Army (25th Infantry, Combat Engineers). He served in the Pacific during World War II and was awarded a Bronze Star.
Erickson married Norma Fleet in New Zealand in 1944. The couple built a home outside Auckland that Erickson designed. The pair moved to Malibu in 1963 and raised their four children on Point Dume.
Erickson worked as a commercial architect for 43 years. He was also an avid reader and an ardent supporter of public libraries.
Those who knew Erickson remember him for his “wonderful sense of humor,” saying he was someone who “always had a joke at the ready.” He also enjoyed good food and frequently discussed memorable culinary experiences with friends.
Erickson was very interested in sports. He was a devoted fan of the Dodgers, Lakers and Cubs, along with any youth or college team with which his children or grandchildren were associated. Erickson frequently spent weekends rebuilding the snack shack at the Little League field or repairing Trancas arena.
Erickson is survived by his wife of 64 years, Norma, his sons Ed and Clay, his daughters Cindy (husband Steve Wells) and Yolande (husband Dan Ross) and his grandsons Asher and Dash Ross. He was also very close with his devoted caretakers Blanca Reyes and Sarah Torres.