FRED A. "FRITZ" ERICKSON

Fred A. "Fritz" Erickson (1933 – 2026) Fred A. Erickson, 92, affectionately known as "Fritz," passed away in Las Vegas on March 13, 2026. A Korean War veteran, dedicated coach, and fixture of the Las Vegas business community, Fred lived a life defined by service, leadership, and "the art of the deal." Born in 1933 in Monroe, WI, Fred carried his Midwestern values through every chapter of his life. During the Korean War, he served with distinction as a medic and ambulance driver. Having grown up driving tractors, he famously used his skill at double-clutching to quickly move himself up the ranks from "pots and pans" in the kitchen to the driver's seat of an ambulance. Though he never considered himself brave—simply stating he "didn't have any choices"—his steady hand on the front lines was a hallmark of his character. After the war, Fred earned a Science degree from the University of Wisconsin–Platteville and pursued advanced studies through the National Science Foundation. He often joked that his scientific expertise was the secret to his golf and tennis games. Before moving to Las Vegas in 1972, he shared his passion for strategy as a high school football coach in Illinois. In Nevada, he built a legendary second career in insurance and real estate. Known for his firm handshake and for never meeting a stranger, Fred had a nickname for everyone and thrived on the city's relationship-driven culture. An unwavering optimist, his favorite refrain, "Now that's a positive!" will remain a guiding light for his family. Fred is survived by his daughters, Lynne, Tonya, and Laurie Caietti; his sons, Christopher and Matthew; his daughter-in-law, Flavia Erickson; and his granddaughters, Freyja Erickson, Erika Caietti, and Kristi Caietti. Services: 10:00 am, May 29th at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery (1900 Buchanan Blvd, Boulder City, NV). Guest Information: Due to the cemetery's strict military schedule, guests should arrive 15–20 minutes early to line up in the designated staging lane. The service will be held in the outdoor committal shelter and include military honors.