Dolores Jeanne (Nault) Erickson

Dolores Jeanne Erickson (Nault), daughter of Jules and Gerda Nault (Hanson)was a beloved matriarch and the heart of her family, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026 at the age of 96.

Born on May 6, 1929 in Whitestone, New York. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard P. Erickson; her son, Richard “Leif” Erickson; her daughter, Karen Bennett and her sister Elaine Ahern.

She is survived by her children Barbara Sawby (Cyrus); Donna Mushrush (Darwin); her daughter-in-law Tina Erickson; and her son-in-law Jay Bennett. Her cousin Carol Shagen (Wade) and nephew Stephen Ahern (Susan) and many other nieces and nephews.

She is also survived by her 11 grandchildren: Christopher, Jayson, Erick (Jesse), Lauren, Deanna (Steve), Jennifer, Julie, Karly (Brian), Leif, Darwin IV, Nicole (Mike)

and 8 precious great-grandchildren: James, Sam, Cooper, Lucy, Victoria, Bennett, Mae, Michael and one great-grandchild eagerly anticipated.

For 67 years Dolores devoted her life to her husband Richard.  They had a wonderful life together, raised their children, traveled together but were always there for the family. She was a steady presence, a source of comfort, and the one who kept generations connected through love, tradition, and unwavering care. Some of her favorite times were when her family gathered to celebrate birthdays and the holidays!

Proud of her Norwegian heritage, Dolores was a member of the Sons of Norway, where she enjoyed celebrating her culture and traditions. Known for her beloved “Nanny recipes,” she shared her love through cooking…those lucky enough to receive a jar of her homemade peach jelly, a chocolate chip cake or vanilla custard …all knew it was something truly special.

She also loved to knit and crochet. Many people were blessed with lovingly handmade blankets and treasured keepsakes, gifts that will be cherished for generations. Gardening brought her great joy, especially nurturing flowers that brightened both her yard and the lives around her. There was always a puzzle on the table and she was also known to drop in a fishing line or two.

She is remembered by a circle of beloved family, dear friends, and devoted caregivers who will carry her memory forward.

To know Dolores was to feel loved. Her legacy lives on through the family she nurtured, the traditions she kept alive, and the countless acts of care…stitched, cooked, and shared with love.

Visitation with family and friends will be held from 9:30AM with a Mass of Christian Burial beginning at 10:00 AM on Friday, January 16, 2026, all to be held at St. Dorothy’s Parish, 4910 Township Line Road, Drexel Hill, PA 19026.  Interment to follow in SS Peter and Paul Cemetery-Springfield, PA