Bob and Jean Erikson: Continuing Traditions
Bob Erikson, a Past Governor of the CNH District of Kiwanis International and former member of the CNH Foundation Board of Directors, is probably best known for his role as the “Pink Panther” during his year as Governor. Very few Governors have danced across the stage during their installation dinner in a pink tutu as a kick off to their year. But then, anyone who knows Bob, will tell you that’s exactly the kind of person he is.
Bob has devoted more than 35 years of his life to Kiwanis and its mission of serving the children of the world. These days, Bob and his wife Jean spend a majority of their time involved in Kiwanis, either through service with their home club or by championing the Kiwanis Doctor Program.
As amazing as it might sound, even with all they do, Bob and Jean wanted to find yet another way to give back. Bob states, “I have spent 35 years of my life as a Kiwanian, and Jean, almost the same. It’s part of who we are and the change we want to see in our communities. Becoming part of the Legacy Fellowship was a very easy choice for us. In all honesty, we are delighted to do something that will ensure everything we’ve worked toward will be sustained in the years to come. It was important for Jean and I to invest in something that will continue the traditions of what we love to do.”
Like so many other members of the Legacy Fellowship, Bob and Jean have provided for the Kiwanis Cal-Nev-Ha Foundation in their estate. As Bob says,
“What better could we have done than to provide for the continued support and development of our youth, and the Foundation’s ability to continually provide for the immediate community needs? I have spent so much time talking with patients in the Emergency Department at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital and I know the impact we have on children’s lives.”
Bob and Jean hope their generosity encourages others to think about creating their own lasting legacy. “In my mind, there is nothing more meaningful than what we do in the lives of children everyday. I am proud to be a part of this great organization. Jean and I wanted to do this; it made us happy. I am grateful to this Foundation and organization for the opportunities they have given to each of us to make a difference.”
And to many of us, Bob’s words parallel our own reasons for supporting the Foundation, “If you’re going to get the most out of this organization, why not give back with everything you can? Giving in this way enriches our own experience with Kiwanis. We mean it when we say, we couldn’t ask for more.”