Dale Rodvold Erickson

Dale Rodvold Erickson, of Austin, Minnesota, was born September 4, 1947, and died 79 years later on the same date. Dale was born in Duluth, Minnesota to Rudy and Borghild (Rodvold) Erickson. He graduated from Central High School in Duluth in 1965. Following graduation he attended the University of Minnesota – Duluth and earned a bachelor’s degree in education. While he was attending UMD, he served in the Air National Guard from 1967-1973. Dale was very proud and honored to have served his country. He then moved to Austin and began a 34-year career with Austin Public Schools. While teaching he pursued his master’s degree in administration. Dale spent many years at Ellis Middle School as a teacher and assistant principal. He retired from Banfield Elementary School as the principal.

Dale met his soulmate, Elaine Faye Smith (Moltz), in 1989 and the couple was married on July 2, 1994, at First United Methodist Church in Austin. Dale and Elaine blended their families together and in 1997 moved to Owatonna for Elaine’s job. Dale commuted back to Austin for 20 years to continue his teaching career. He enjoyed the Minnesota Vikings, the Wild, UMD Bulldogs hockey, and entertaining people with his stupid dad jokes. Dale loved listening to Elaine sing, and a favorite band of his was Fat Rudy, an original Austin rock/blues band in the 90s. Family was important to Dale, especially his grandchildren and new great-granddaughter.

Dale is survived by his wife, Elaine of Austin; sons, Michael (Susan) Erickson of Minneapolis and Jesse (Laurie) Smith of Austin; grandsons, Hamdi and Yohannes Erickson of Minneapolis, Isaiah (Trinity) Smith of Austin and Henry Smith of Austin; great-granddaughter, Leona Smith of Austin; brother, Roger (Annie) Erickson of Duluth; sister-in-law, Lynne Erickson of Duluth; brother-in-law, Brian Moltz of Edina; sister-in-law, Gayle Moltz of Burnsville; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rudy and Borghild; daughter, Patty Erickson; son, Gabriel Smith; brother, Clyde Erickson; and brothers-in-law, Allen Moltz and Randy Killian.

Per Dale’s wishes, no services will be held. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.