Reid Erickson

Sergeant Reid Erickson of the Ukiah Office of the California Highway Patrol died at his home in Lincoln, California, on May 31, 2024, from occupational cancer. He courageously fought Glioblastoma, a very aggressive brain cancer, but succumbed to the disease at the age of 54. He had served with the CHP for 22 years.  

Erickson was born in Fort Collins, Colorado, to Barbara and Robert Erickson. He spent his childhood first in Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania, then in Atlanta, Georgia. He had a close-knit family that included his brother and sister. He was outgoing and social from a young age, making friends with kids from all different backgrounds. He graduated from Parkview High School, and then attended Valdosta State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. He worked as a lead falconer and wildlife biologist at The World Bird Sanctuary for nine years. He trained and flew falcons to act as natural predators to other birds to reduce air strikes on US Air Force bases in New Jersey, Illinois and California. His travels took him to many National Parks, seeing much of the country he loved.  

His brother was a Highway Patrolman in Georgia, and after a few ride-alongs, he decided that he would really love to work as a first responder. He joined the California Highway Patrol in 2002 as an Officer and then a Sergeant. He was deeply committed to public safety and had a passion for removing impaired drivers from the road. Later in his career, he brought that same sense of responsibility to his work as a radiation safety officer, training people in radiation safety throughout the state and across agencies. His dedication was recognized through multiple commendations from supervisors, management, and the community. He received many Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) awards for DUI enforcement over the years. 

Erickson met his future wife, Christina, at the Bird Sanctuary in Missouri. She was drawn to his easy laugh and sense of humor, and how he made everyone feel welcome and comfortable. They married and had two children, Annora and Finley. They shared their love of nature as a family, with their son becoming an excellent birdwatcher, taught by his father. He also shared his love for classical music with the family, and they attended the symphony together as a family tradition. Erickson strongly believed in treating people with respect. In all he did, he shared his dedication with his family, friends, and co-workers. He loved to laugh, enjoy life, and take care of the people around him. 

Sergeant Reid Erickson is survived by his loving wife, Christina, his daughter, Annora, his son, Finley, his mother, Barbara Erickson, his sister, Ann, and many other cherished family members and friends. 

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Erickson family home through the Fallen First Responder Home Program.