Corvallis – After a long struggle with health issues, Della May (McGregor) Erickson, 75 of Corvallis, Montana, peacefully passed away on December 23, 2022. Della was born in Hamilton, Montana, on May 8, 1947, to Delroy “Pickles” and Belle (Allen) McGregor.
She grew up on the family ranch on Sleeping Child Creek with her brother, Elmer, and sisters, Margaret and Helen. Della developed her love for horses at a young age. This love lasted a lifetime as she rode the range with her mom and joined her for Wednesday Happy Saddle Tramps. Della was also a member of the Back Country Horsemen, rode in competitive trail rides, and volunteered as a Horse Leader for 4-H. Her love for horses led to many lifelong friendships, such as with her dear friend, Pat.
Della married Robert Wilson, in April of 1968, and had two children, John Wilson and Belle (Wilson) Belanger. Her first marriage ended in divorce. Della married Louis Erickson on April 7, 1984. Della and Louis enjoyed farming together, riding horses, and rock-hounding.
Della was well-known as a bus driver; she drove for over 30 years. She enjoyed her daily bus route and many extracurricular trips. She drove a bus for the Forest Service transporting firefighters during several summers, including the Yellowstone Fires in 1988. She also drove a tour bus in Glacier Park. Della greatly enjoyed traveling with family and friends. She was thrilled to go to Greece and France as a chaperone with the Corvallis School. She also made a trip to Australia to visit her dear friend Yvonne. Everywhere she went Della had her camera. Della loved to crochet and gave many afghans as gifts. Della was always full of life and was no stranger to mischief.
Della was preceded in death by her husband, Reuban Louis Erickson; her parents, Pickles and Belle McGregor; and her sister, Margaret (McGregor) Lykins.
Della is survived by her son, John (Lori-Sue) Wilson, their children, Haley, Jessica, Joshua, and Rose-Ann, and 12 great-grandchildren; and her daughter, Belle (Wilson) Belanger, and her children, Daniel, Talitha, Naomi, Erin, Kera, and two great-grandchildren; her sister, Helen Engle; and brother, Elmer (Patty) McGregor; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Special thanks to the great people at Aaron Care, and many others who helped care for Della. A Celebration of Della’s life will be held when the air is warm, and the horseflies are buzzing. The date and time are to be announced.