Obituary of Vincent Erik Eriksson

Vincent Erik Eriksson

(November 24, 1931 - July 13, 2022)

Vincent Erik Eriksson of Camrose, Alberta, formerly of Czar AB, passed away on Wednesday, July 13, 2022 at the age of 90 years.

Vincent Eriksson was born November 24, 1931 on the family’s farm just north of Czar Alberta; the 3rd child of Gustav and Gerda (nee Hanson), with older siblings Louise and Luther.  From a young age, he was an avid reader and a quick learner.  At one point he received the Governor General’s medal for academic achievement.  He went on to the University of Saskatchewan, receiving a BA in 1954.  With further studies was awarded a double-honors in history and philosophy and his Bachelors of Divinity in 1957.
 

Vincent first met Mary Ellen on a bus to Regina to the university parliamentary forum.  Mary Ellen was reporting for the student newspaper and Vincent was a student parliament member.  They were married in 1956.
 

After an internship in Duluth, Wisconsin, Vincent was called to a 5-point parish in Shaunavon, Saskatchewan where David, James, and Jon were born.  He also completed a Masters of Arts in Philosophy.  In 1962 he served a parish in Fort William, Ontario for 1 year.
 

In 1963 Vincent accepted a position at Camrose Lutheran College where for 28 years he taught courses in history, religious studies, and philosophy.  In 1964, Margaret was born, and Bart in 1969.
 

Vincent’s love of history meant stopping at all roadside historical markers, museums, forts, and interesting churches during summer holidays.  He was involved with the NDP, several historical societies, and Sahakarini.  He served two terms on the Camrose School Board, on church council, and in other church related positions.  More recently he attended the Saturday morning Men’s Bible Study and the World Mission Group at Messiah.
 

Vincent had a keen interest in gardening, baking, and taught himself electrical wiring and the basics of wood frame construction to work on the family cabin, also helping his children with their projects.  His childhood practice of reading to his parents in the evening developed into a life-long practice of reading aloud after meals and before bedtime.  This was one of the family’s most joyful experiences.  The practice of singing hymns was another.  On their several vacations overseas with Mary Ellen they visited their children and he pursued his interest in history.
 

After retiring from teaching in 1989, he wanted to go back into parish ministry and served sequentially nine parishes on an interim basis.
 

Vincent led a life of integrity and faith, embracing many challenges and adventures along his life’s journey, successfully raising a family gifted with their own amazing contributions and talents.  His good humour, compassion, strong faith in God, instinctive nature to speak up for truthfulness and forbearance were among just a few of his qualities.  He left a lasting imprint upon the lives of many students, congregational members, and church communities.  We lovingly commend him to the care of our Saviour Jesus Christ.
 

Vincent was predeceased by his daughter Margaret.  He is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen, his children David (Barbara), James (Kumiko), Jon (Karen), Bart (Darina), eleven grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, nine nieces and nephews, and other family members.

A funeral service was held Tuesday, July 26, 2022, at the Messiah Lutheran Church with Rev. Bev Swanson officiating. A recording of the service can be viewed at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42JNYFkONqU&list=PLJFUk7apQDcYVfkoGoYit4_r_D0B7A11a 

If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to Canadian Lutheran Bible Institute, World Mission Prayer League,  Canadian Lutheran World Relief,  or Messiah Lutheran Church.