HUDSON, Wis. -- Claire Erickson, 83, and his wife, Betty Erickson, 81, were found dead in their home in Hudson, Wis., early Tuesday, reported The Pioneer Press. Indications at the scene suggested a murder-suicide with a gun, according to a statement by the Hudson Police Department. Erickson founded Erickson Oil/Freedom Valu Centers Inc., a gas and convenience store chain with more than 60 locations in Minnesota, Wisconsin, South Dakota and Michigan. Son David Erickson is currently president of the company.
News of the deaths sent shockwaves through the community, [image-nocss] said the report. Neighbors said both Ericksons had survived cancer and were often seen gardening in their yard. They were a loving couple, neighbors said, and nothing indicated problems between them. "I can't see them doing this to themselves; I just can't," a neighbor told the newspaper. "They were just a perfect, loving couple."
Dave Holt, owner of a Ford dealership in Hudson since 1974, called the deaths "a shocking development for the Hudson community. "Because of their long-term community involvement, they've been instrumental in a lot of the progress of our area," Holt told the paper. "They were very well-liked, visible and respected." Holt said he got to know Claire Erickson through the car dealership and through Bethel Lutheran Church, where Erickson was an active member.
Kim Heinemann, president of the Hudson Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau, said the Ericksons' company and family have been longtime supporters of the community. Erickson's company was recognized last year as the 2007 large business of the year by the chamber.
Family members would not speak with reporters, requesting privacy.
Claire Erickson and his father, Herman, purchased their first gas station in Red Wing, Minn., in 1950. The family also owned a refinery, which was sold in 1970. As the number of stations grew, mostly in rural areas, they added convenience stores to their operations. The company recently began focusing on expanding in suburban communities and has more than a dozen stores throughout the Twin Cities metro area, said the report.
CSP sends condolences to their family, friends and colleagues.
Members help make our journalism possible. Become a CSP member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.