Helen Jane Erickson, age 86, of Wild Rose, WI, passed away on Monday May 11th, 2026 with
her family by her side.
Helen was born in Union Grove, WI on July 21st, 1939, the daughter of the late Everett and
Margaret Whitley. Helen spent her elementary school years in Union Grove, WI and graduated
from Union Grove High School in 1957. Helen went on to earn her teaching degree from Racine-
Kenosha County Teachers College in 1959. She married her high school sweetheart, Harry
Erickson, on July 11th, 1959. Helen and Harry moved to Wild Rose, WI, and Helen continued her
teaching career in Pine River, WI before starting their family.
Helen would always say she was a homemaker. That was Helen being modest. Her life’s work
extended beyond raising a family. Together, Harry and Helen owned and operated numerous
successful businesses including the family farm, Wautoma A&W for 48 years, Princeton and
Wautoma Amish House stores, and the Westfield Amish House Market. Even up to her passing,
Helen enjoyed visiting her stores, sampling new products, and engaging with customers. She
was always looking for new ways to serve her customers and create a stronger business.
Helen lived out her Christian faith through acts of service and hospitality. She loved to learn and
took inspiration from daily Bible readings and weekly sermons. Helen was an active member of
the Wild Rose Baptist Church. She selflessly opened her home to missionaries, served in
children ministries, and prepared church dinners. Through her generosity and kindness, she
exemplified the love of Christ to those around her. She made everyone feel welcomed and at
home.
The calling that defined Helen’s life was her commitment to be invested in the lives of her
family. Helen was a devoted mother and committed companion. Helen relished her quiet times
with Harry where they could dream up ideas for their businesses and family. Whether it was
making meals for the boys, talking on the phone with her daughters multiple times a day, or
caring for her husband, Helen was intentional to always connect, direct, or just be “Mom.” As
her children began families of their own, Helen embraced her role as grandmother, and
eventually great-grandmother, with the same love and devotion that defined every aspect of
her life. Being “Grandma” brought her immense pride and happiness, and she treasured every
moment spent creating memories with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Helen will be remembered for her spirited laugh, taking her grandchildren aside and telling her
latest tale, her radiant joy, and above all, Helen’s crowning jewel, her faith in the Lord Jesus
Christ.
Helen is survived by her husband of 66 years, Harry Erickson of Wild Rose, WI; her children:
Jane (Ludwig) Wurtz, Barbara (David) Brooks, Robert Erickson, Sally Solis, Keith (Jennifer)
Erickson; her grandchildren: Taylor (Preston) Purifoy, Tiffani (Jacob) Paltz, Lincoln Wurtz,
Preston Wurtz, Abby (Keith) Brennan, Christina (Christopher) Basten, Bobby (Lexi) Brooks,
Matthew (Lauren) Brooks, Brian (Kristin) Erickson, Josh Erickson, Evan (Grace) Erickson, Emily
Solis, Jon Solis, Jacob Solis, Nicholas (Cayley) Erickson, Bryce Erickson, Carissa Erickson, Austin
Erickson; and her great-grandchildren: Grayson, Adalynn, Harrison, Weston, Nora, Frances,
Carter, Payton, Stevie, Macklin, Colson, Layne, Walker, Lainey, Truett, and Johanna. She is also
survived by her brother, Tom (Nancy) Whitley; sister-in-law, Joan Erickson; and brother-in-law,
Wayne Erickson; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends. Helen was preceded in death by
her parents, Everett and Margaret Whitley, and her brother, Warren Whitley.
A funeral service will be held at the Wild Rose Baptist Church in Wild Rose, WI at 12:00 PM
(Noon) on Thursday, May 21st, 2026, with Reverend Ben Terpstra officiating. Visitation will be
held 10:00 AM to 11:45 AM preceding the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in her
name can be made to the Wild Rose Baptist Church. Interment will be in the Wild Rose Union
Cemetery, Town of Wautoma, WI.
The Holly Funeral Home of Wild Rose is assisting the family with arrangements.
