Erickson, Captain Donald Earl Age 84 March 26, 2012 of Taylor. Beloved husband of Carol "Joyce". Dearest father of Eric Jon (Nancy). Loving brother of Helen Blair. Loving brother-in-law of Dean and Joan Jacobson. Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Joined U.S. Navy at 16 during WWII and received the Bronze Star. Spent the rest of his life sailing the Great Lakes while working for Ford Motor Co. Captain Erickson worked his way up the ranks to become the youngest Captain of the Great Lakes at that time. He received a Commendation for searching for survivors of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald. Was very active in ISMA. Also a member of the Moose, VFW and Eagles. Loved to spend time at his cabin in the Upper Peninsula with his son Eric Jon.