Richard “Rick” Francis Erickson, 63, died Thursday, Jan. 15, 2015, at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse, after a short battle with cancer.

Rick was born Nov. 18, 1951, in La Crosse, to Francis (Lucky) Erickson and Mary (Mickey) Bott. He attended Central High School in La Crosse, graduating in 1970. He worked at St. Francis Hospital in La Crosse (now Mayo Clinic Health Systems), and later worked in production at Kwik Trip, Inc.

Rick loved animals – from the prize-winning show pigeons he raised as a boy, to the cats and dogs he had as an adult. He also loved football, especially the Green Bay Packers. He loved and respected his Mom; he loved to laugh and have fun — playing horseshoes or pool, fishing, being with friends and his beloved pets. He was dearly loved, and will be deeply missed.

He is survived by one sister, Elaine Berg; and one brother, Ray (Barb Loing) Erickson, both of La Crosse; a brother-in-law, John McCune, of Mobile, Ala.; four nieces, Margo, Julie, Kim and Tammy; one nephew, Mike; several great-nieces and great-great-nieces; one great-great-nephew and many cousins; good friends, particularly Jimmy Hurley, special friend, Carolyn Heffernan; and his beloved dog, Molly.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Nancy.

Visitation will be from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday at Blaschke & Schneider Funeral Home, 1501 West Ave. S., La Crosse. A private family burial will follow at a later date in Catholic Cemetery in La Crosse.

Online condolences may be left at blaschkeschneider.com