Wayne Loren Erickson, 67, of Defiance, passed away on Friday, February 6, 2015, peacefully at his home, surrounded by family

He was born on August 25, 1947, to John Gerald and Faye (Hart) Erickson in Chanute, Kansas.  In December of 1973, he married Claudia (Leuthold) Erickson, who passed away in 1983.  On June 15, 1985, he married Mary M. (Clemens) Erickson, who survives. Wayne was a partner and certified public accountant (CPA) at Steyer & Co., CPAs, and was a graduate of Kansas State University.  Wayne was a veteran of the United States Navy, serving in the Vietnam War from 1969-1973.

Wayne was a member of the Defiance Christian Church, serving as an Elder, Deacon, Treasurer and Sunday School teacher.  He served on the Board of Trustees at Great Lakes Christian College.  As an active member of the Defiance community, Wayne was elected and served on the Ayersville Local School Board for 14 years, while also serving on the Ayersville Education Foundation. In addition, Wayne was the past President of the Lion's Club and United Way and past officer of the Defiance Area Chamber of Commerce. He was a member of the Ohio Society of CPAs and American Institute of CPAs (AICPA).

As a loving husband and father, Wayne enjoyed spending time with his family and his church.  Between cheering for the Kansas State Wildcats and The Ohio State Buckeyes, Wayne was a skilled woodworker, making fine furniture for family.  He also loved spending family vacations at his lake house on Lake Bel-Air, Michigan, where he created lasting memories with his large and loving extended family.

Wayne is survived by his loving wife, Mary M. Erickson, of Defiance; daughters, Kristina Derkatsch, Lauren Erickson of Orlando, FL, and Sydney Erickson of Columbus, OH; son, J.J. (Renae) Erickson of Columbus, OH; grandson, Michael Derkatsch; and his many sister-in-laws, brother-in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Raymond L. Erickson and Richard L. Erickson, and wife, Claudia (Leuthold) Erickson.

Funeral services for Wayne will be held at the Defiance Christian Church, 955 Standley Rd. Defiance, on Wednesday, February 11, 2015 at 11:00 am with the Rev. Larry Carter officiating.  Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery where members of the Defiance VFW Post 3360 will accord military honors.   Friends may call at the Defiance Christian Church on Tuesday, February 10, 2015 from 2-8 pm and one hour prior to the service from 10 to 11 am on Wednesday.

Memorials are suggested to Defiance Christian Church or Great Lakes Christian College.