Honoring a Legacy of Joy: The Spirit of Giving Lives On
On Sunday, May 4, 2025, family and friends gathered to celebrate the life of Michael Erickson, a beloved Rockford resident known by many — especially the youngest among us — as Santa Claus.
For more than 25 years, Michael brought the magic of Christmas to life, donning the red suit and spreading joy to children throughout the Rockford area. He became a treasured part of holiday celebrations across the region. Whether appearing at Stroll on State, Christmas Eve at the Stockholm Inn, or the Tree Lighting at Edgebrook, Michael could be found bringing delight and wonder to families year after year.
One of his favorite traditions was a heartfelt one: each Christmas morning, Michael and his wife would visit the Belvidere Oasis, handing out toys to children traveling that day. He passed out candy canes, offered hugs, and later began giving small gold coins engraved with a simple but powerful message: “Remember the Reason for the Season.”
Michael’s mission was simple— to ensure children were smiling at Christmas.
To carry on that mission, the Erickson family made a beautiful and meaningful request: in lieu of flowers, they asked for toy donations to honor Michael’s legacy of giving. The response was extraordinary. Over 350 toys were donated and delivered to The Salvation Army of Winnebago County, a powerful testament to the lives Michael touched.
These toys will become part of the 2025 Lou Bachrodt 12 Hours of Salvation Toy Drive — an event where Michael himself once appeared as Santa. With over 2,000 children registered to receive gifts last year, these donations are sure to bring joy to countless young hearts this Christmas.
The Salvation Army is deeply honored and incredibly grateful to the Erickson family for choosing to celebrate Michael’s life in this meaningful way. Their generosity will ensure that hundreds of children experience the same magic and warmth that Michael gave throughout his life.
As his daughter, Renee, shared, “I have no doubt my dad was smiling, looking down at all the gifts that were donated.”
Thanks to this beautiful act of remembrance, Michael Erickson’s spirit continues to shine, bringing comfort, joy, and hope to the children and families who need it most.
