1928 – 2013

SCARBOROUGH — Harold Erickson of Portland, 84, passed away April 10, after a short period of severe illness.

Harold was born fourth of seven children, in Waterville, on Aug. 26, 1928, to parents Albert and Florence Erickson. The family moved south and, as a young boy, Harold attended Presumpscot and Cummings schools in Portland and is a graduate of Portland High, with the Class of 1948.

Harold loved sports and played football at PHS as No. 20, baseball as No. 70 and boxed during 1948 and 1949 as a member of the Golden Gloves. Harold played baseball with the Twilight League at Payson Field from 1945 to 1958 on Team Harris Oil. In his later years, Harold and friends played golf every season at the Riverside Municipal Golf Course, where among eagles, birdies, and some that just got away, he golfed a “Hole in One” on No. 13.

Harold worked 40 years with the Maine Central Railroad and in 1988 was recognized by the United Transportation Union (UTU) GO 529 for untiring service and dedication as general chairman for 28 years on the Maine Central-Portland Terminal. Harold believed with all his being that unions are necessary for all workers. He worked tirelessly for transportation workers and others, constantly vigilant for workers’ rights, standing with the UTU, battling to strengthen and keep fair laws in place, and building participation of workers.

A Member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen, in 1969, the Brotherhood merged with others into the UTU and the voice of workers grew louder. Harold was there and he believed that giving workers a voice on the job not only makes a better life for all workers, but builds stronger neighborhoods and communities around us and across our great nation.

Fighting for the rights of workers ran through his veins and at the local level, whether you were with Harold or against him, walked before him, walked beside him, or walked in his footsteps along with the UTU; lives were changed for the better. Then and now, Leadership in the UTU continue to help transportation and its workers function at a high level for all; in our towns, our cities, our states, and our country.

Harold was a Master Freemason and lifetime member of The Deering Grand Lodge No. 183. As his illness progressed, he thought of his friends and family often and greatly missed not only golfing but his Friday night gatherings. As quick as Harold and his lovely wife, Louise, swung across the dance floor to the rock and roll music, an illness struck him down.

Harold is survived by sister, Mildred (Mickey) Churchill; and brothers, Richard (Dicky) and Maurice (Bucky); and by many nieces, nephews and grandchildren in the Churchill and Erickson families. He is also survived by mother-in-law, Beatrice Chase; wife, Louise Bell-Erickson; Louise’s brother, Fred Chase and wife, Diana. Harold was predeceased by Robert Chase; surviving is Robert’s wife, Elizabeth. Harold was also predeceased by stepson, Robert Bell; surviving are Robert’s wife, Kathleen and Harold’s grandchildren, Steve and Samantha. Harold is survived by a stepdaughter residing in Texas, Carol Black, and grandchildren, Kari Lyn and James. He is also survived by stepson, Richard Bell, and grandchildren, Kala and Kaitlyn, residents of California; and stepson, Russell Bell, also of California.

Harold was predeceased by brother, Albert Junior; two sisters, Ruth & Madeline; grandson, Robert Black.

A wish of special mention to local close relatives; stepdaughter, Peggy Bell and his special grandchildren, Kyle and Corina, and predeceased grandson, Nathaniel Charles.

As family who loved him and knew him best, we must convey;“What a fighter you shared your life with.”

Please visit www.jonesrichandhutchins.com for additional information and to sign Harold’s guestbook.