Barbara Joyce Erickson

Barbara Joyce Erickson passed away peacefully on September 23, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on January 1, 1942, Barbara lived a life marked by devotion to her family, steady work, abiding faith, and the simple joys that made her warmly memorable to all who knew her.

She graduated from Steinmetz High School in 1960 and went on to build a life of diligence and service. Barbara worked as a machinist for Filter Tech Manufacturing in Hebron, and she also served as a dispatcher for both the Police and Fire Department in Hebron, Illinois. In each role, she brought commitment and reliability, offering her time and talents in ways that supported both her workplace and her community.

Barbara’s life was rich with the interests and affections that reflected her generous spirit. She was a die-hard Cubs fan, and through family friends she had the pleasure of meeting many Cubs players, an experience that delighted her. She also loved the Chicago Bears and followed them with equal enthusiasm. 

She served as a troop leader for Cub Scout Troop #606, taught Sunday School, and was an avid Bible reader whose faith was woven into the fabric of her daily life. At home, she loved to color, enjoyed watching the birds outside, watching Grey’s Anatomy, and treasured time in the kitchen teaching her grandchildren how to cook. Some of her sweetest moments were the ones shared over Cheerios with her grandchildren. And when the occasion was right, she enjoyed a little Jack Daniel’s Honey, a small pleasure that those close to her will remember with a smile.

Above all, Barbara will be remembered as the heart of a deeply connected family. She is survived by her children and their spouses: Carl and Misty Erickson, David and Mel Erickson, Joyce and Jason Smith and Godson and his wife, Curt and Barbie Wilson. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Austin and Dani Smith, Adam Smith, Aaron Smith, Hannah and Dawson Comer, Kendall Erickson, Daniel Pace, Hannah and Lucas Denton, Luke Pace, Salina, Annika Erickson, and Stephanie Erickson. Her love extended as well to her great-grandchildren, Hunter Smith, Kinsley Smith, Ryder Pace, and Samuel Pace. In the life of her family, Barbara’s presence was one of guidance, warmth, and enduring affection, and the lessons she shared—in faith, in cooking, in companionship, and in love—will remain with them always.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur Erickson; her father and mother, Alfred and Lorraine Tabel; and her brother, James Tabel. Their memories remained part of her life, and now she is reunited with those who went before her.

Visitation will be held on October 17, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 700 North Bloomfield Road, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin 53147. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m. at the church.

Barbara Joyce Erickson will be remembered with love for her strength, her faith, her laughter, her loyalty to her teams, and the tenderness she gave so freely to her family. Her memory will continue to live on in the stories told around kitchen tables, in the bonds she helped shape, and in the many lives made better by her presence.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy the family has asked that you make a donation to Immanuel Lutheran Church's Youth Ministry Fund.

To share a memory that you have of your time with Barbara, or to post your condolences to the family, please proceed to the bottom of the obituary under Guest Book where you can submit your post.

Derrick Funeral Home of Lake Geneva is honored to be assisting Barbara's family.