Alfred C. Erickson

Alfred Carl Erickson, 95, of Warrington, PA, passed peacefully into the presence of his Savior on June 5, 2023. Alfred was born in Philadelphia, PA to H. Alfred and Carolyn W. Erickson on September 22, 1927. He was a graduate of the 183rd Class of Central High School. He excelled in sports and ran track and cross-country. After graduation he enlisted in the US Army Air Corps, ASTRP. Upon completion of three semesters in the field of Civil Engineering at VMI, he was called to active duty at the age of 18. He finished his tour of duty as a cryptographer at Elmendorf Field in Anchorage, Alaska. He furthered his study of Civil Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel Institute of Technology. His extensive career with the railroad spanned 41 years. He was employed by the Pennsylvania Railroad (1950-1968), Penn Central (1968-1976), and Amtrak (1976-1991). He often spoke of the work he did on the Delair bridge conversion. It was completed in 1960 and was the longest double-track lift bridge in the world at the time.

Alfred, affectionately known as “Bud”, or “ACE” in the workplace, impacted many lives in his 95 years. He devoted his life to serving the Lord and his family, his most valued treasure. He loved coaching little league baseball, football and basketball, and enjoyed playing golf and softball throughout his life. An avid sports fan, he loved to cheer on the Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies, but watching his children and grandchildren in their various events was his true favorite.

His love of music began at an early age when he learned to play the accordion and joined The Philadelphia Grand Organ Chorus. He also played in a trio known as the “Three Musketeers'' providing entertainment at various school and social events. His passion for music continued and he and his wife, Sylvia, had a beautiful music ministry together. Sylvia played the piano and organ, and Bud led the singing in church. His greatest enjoyment came from directing the choirs at Bethel Chapel, Bensalem Baptist Church and Bible Baptist Church. He also served in youth ministry, leading hymn sings, snow camp, and other activities to challenge the youth to dedicate their lives to the Lord. Bud trusted Jesus at a young age and encouraged others to do the same. He was a faithful servant throughout his life. Even through times of great loss, he still had a song to sing.

Bud was a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, coach, choir director, mentor, and friend. He was loved by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his loving children Carolyn R. Johnson, David W. Seelhorst, Deane A. Seelhorst (Donna) and son-in-law Fred W. Hyle; brother-in-law Paul Martin (Diane); grandchildren: Ingrid Cagwin (Jeff), Jan Reigle (Joe), Valerie Ritchey (Jevon), Danielle Hammond (Eddie), Tyler Erickson (Amanda), Kirsten Palmieri (Ronald), Caleigh Saucier (Cameron), Melanie Reinhard (Alex), Lynnea Spina (Anthony), and Andrew Johnson; great-grandchildren: Tanner, Hanna, Olivia, Brady, Peter, Abigail, Clinton, Elisabeth, Julia, Wells, Serena, Chloe, Lyla, Tobias, Juniper and Adaline. Bud was preceded in death by his loving wife, Sylvia R. Erickson; his children Alfred “Buddy” Erickson II, Sue Hyle, and Dwight P. Erickson; his daughter-in-law Betty J. Seelhorst and son-in-law, Ralph P. Johnson.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewing on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at the Calvary Baptist Church, 250 Green Lane, Bristol, PA 19007 and again Thursday, June 22, 2023, from 10 to 11 AM, followed by his service at 11 AM. Interment Whitemarsh Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his memory may be made to Bible Baptist Church 1717 Street Rd, Southampton, PA 18966.