Herbert W. Erickson, 87, of Lancaster, passed away, Monday, October 11, 2010 at Lancaster General Hospital. Born in Grassflat, PA, he was the son of the late Mary (Olson) and Thurston Erickson.  Herbert was the husband of the late Etheleen (Gorman) Erickson who died in May of 2010.

Music was Herb's life.   He was an exquisite guitarist who started his career with a radio show in Williamsport.  He then moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa to join his brothers where he was a staff guitarist on a radio program.  From 1949 until 1954 he traveled the USA and Canada with the Mel Arvin Trio.  He then moved to Lancaster with his wife to start a career.  He continued playing on weekends with the Charlie Neimer Trio and worked as a draftsman for Schick Inc until 1970.  He then resumed his love for the guitar and started teaching guitar at Don Randall Music for 21 years.

Herbert is survived by a daughter, Darla Miles of Lancaster, and 2 grandsons; Andrew B. and Jon E. Miles both of Lancaster.  Also surviving is a brother, Arnold Erickson, married to Connie of Iowa and 2 sisters, Ruth Boostrom of Iowa and Astrid Sadoti of MA.  He was preceded in death by a brother, Godfrey "Art", a sister Helen Derr, and a son-in-law Brian "Boots" Miles.

Services will be private and at the convenience of the family.  If desired memorials can be sent to the Lancaster Cleft Palate Clinic, 223 N Lime St, Lancaster Pa 17602.

To send an online condolence or for more information please visit SnyderFuneralHome.com. Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz 17543 717-560-5100.