In Memoriam - Ron Erickson

The Environmental Studies Program (EVST) celebrates the life and legacy of Professor Emeritus Ron Erickson, who passed away at age 90 on October 8, 2023. We extend our sincere condolences to his family and many friends. We trust Ron is reunited with his beloved wife, Nancy, who passed in early 2022 and left the world with her magnificent art inspired by nature.  

Ron co-founded EVST in 1970, creating one of the first interdisciplinary environmental studies programs in the country, maybe the world. Ron taught in EVST until his retirement from the UM in 1998. He served as EVST Director from 1976-1984. Ron combined his outstanding scholarship with engagement in civic and political affairs on behalf of environmental protection, peace, and justice. That commitment created an ethos that guides EVST to this day.

Trained as an organic chemist, Ron took a unique turn by delving into the humanities, considering questions of environmental ethics, beauty, and the human spirit. That turn inspired Ron and Nancy to create the Erickson Scholarship, which EVST awards annually to a graduate student whose primary work is in environmental ethics, writing, and/or the humanities. The Ericksons’ support for the environmental humanities will live on for generations.

Over the last 25 years, EVST students and faculty did not get to work or study with Ron at the University. Nonetheless, we knew him. We engaged with him in the community, at the legislature, and in politics. We interviewed him about history and ideas. We learned from him. We are grateful for all of that and much more.

Rest peacefully, Ron. You deserve it after a life very well lived and full of service to people and the planet. You will forever inspire us to broaden ourselves and to be engaged in the issues of the day.

Ron’s obituary can be found here. A Celebration of Life will be held in Spring 2024. If you would like to honor Ron and Nancy’s legacy, the family suggests gifts to the Ron and Nancy Erickson Scholarship Fund.