Bernard J. Ericson

Bernard Ericson, known to many as Bernie or BJ, of Pequot Lakes, MN, passed away on September 13, 2025, in Brainerd, MN, at the age of 75.

Bernie was born March 9, 1950, in Braintree, MA, to Walter Leonard Ericson Sr. and Esther Mae (Davis) Ericson. Bernie was the youngest of four boys. He was baptized at St Francis Xavier in Weymouth, MA, on April 9, 1950, and was confirmed on April 18, 1963, at St John’s the Baptist Church in Quincy, MA. Upon completion of the 8th grade, he started working as a cook. Bernie enlisted in the U.S Army in 1967, he was first cook and was honorably discharged in 1971. He completed his GED in 1969. Bernie moved to Walker, MN where he served in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1974 to 1985 as a mess steward, leaving with an honorable discharge. 

His life was blessed with the birth of his daughter, Tina Lee, in 1973, and son, Adam Glen, in 1982. He was certified as an EMT in 1977, serving on the Walker Fire Department, and later worked on the Fire & Rescue Truck at Brainerd International Raceway. Bernie worked 21 years at Potlatch Paper Corp in Brainerd, MN, as an auxiliary systems engineer and boiler tender until they closed. With the closure of Potlatch, he pursued his passion for cooking, graduating in May 2003 with honors from St Cloud Technical College with a diploma in Culinary Arts. Bernie worked as a fabricator at Pequot Tool and Manufacturing for 6 years, before returning to the food service industry. Most recently, working as a cook at the Pequot Lakes American Legion. Bernie was a proud member of the American Legion Post 49 and a past member of the American Legion Post 255 where he served as a Honor Guard for many years. He enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson, collecting Harley-Davidson memorabilia, cooking, snowmobiling to The Trestle Inn, fishing, hunting, farming, debating politics and the daily headlines with anyone who would listen, and spending time with family and friends.

Bernie is survived by daughter, Tina (Mike Muller) Ericson of Nevis, MN; son, Adam (Sarah) Ericson of Pine River, MN; grandchildren, Sierra (Jon Ceccato) Monroe of Franklin, WI, Morgan Monroe and Taylor Monroe of Nevis, MN, Kayden Witt, Audrey Witt, Savanna Ericson, Temperance Ericson and Hudson Ericson of Pine River, MN; and brother and sister-in-law, Ronnie and Penny Ericson of Seminole, FL; as well as many nieces, nephews, a cousin and special friends. Bernie was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Ester Ericson; and brothers, Lenny Ericson and Jimmy Ericson.

Bernie was a proud veteran, and a loving dad and grandpa. His service to others was a testament of his strong catholic faith. He shared his love of the outdoors and camping along the North Shore with his children and grandchildren. He had an infectious laugh and a great sense of humor. His eastern accent and stories will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed.

Bernie’s family extends their deepest gratitude to Dr. Michael Curran at Essentia Health St. Joseph’s Medical Center for the excellent care he provided.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Pequot Lakes American Legion Post #49 (4435 Main St, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472). Burial will be on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 2:00 pm at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery Little Falls.