Bonita Ann Therrian Erickson, 78

Bonita Ann Therrian Erickson, 78, of Mullan, Idaho, passed away Aug. 16, 2025, at her home in Mullan. Bonita was born Aug. 26, 1946, in Calumet, Mich. to Ferguson and Florence Therrian. Her life was a tapestry of adventure, love and boundless energy that touched the hearts of everyone she met. 

Growing up in Burke Canyon, Bonita’s large family of 12 children lived across from the Catholic Church. She spent many hours with the nuns and in the church during her youth. Known as “Little Mama” to her siblings — Darlene, Maurice, Angela, Bradford, Darryl, Charmaine, Rocky and Kathleen — she was always there to comb hair, mend clothes or shoes, help with bad dreams and provide anything they needed. 

From a young age, Bonita’s vibrant spirit shone brightly. As a girl, she delivered the Burke newspaper with her trusty dog, using her earnings to buy materials for making clothes for her 12 siblings. In high school, she was a whirlwind of activity, participating in cheerleading, drill team and yearbook. Her zest for life continued when she met John Erickson on a memorable date that involved a broken-down car and a rescue by John. Bonita said, “You better marry me or I’m becoming a nun,” and away they went, married June 5, 1965. Their love story spanned over 60 years, filled with their four children, Michelle, Tamara, Daniel and Christina, and travels to Alaska, Michigan, the Bahamas and all over the USA in their motorhome. 

Bonita’s spirit was matched by her dedication to her community. She worked tirelessly at Mullan Junior and Senior High School, where she was affectionately known as “Bouncer” for 34 years. She was a confidante, a reference for colleges and a shoulder to cry on for many students. Her passion for helping others extended to raising money for various causes, including the March of Dimes, American Cancer Society and Alzheimer’s Association. 

Her love for her children was boundless. She was all smiles when she saw any small child, especially her great-grandchildren — Rylee, Jackson, Hayes, Blake and Douglas. She would go running toward little ones all the time, even if they weren’t related to her. Children brought so much joy to her life. Bonita’s hobbies were as diverse as her adventures. She loved collecting rocks and plants, especially purple African Violets, her favorite color. She was an avid bowler, a guild president, a eucharist minister and a Catechism teacher. She also enjoyed crocheting, sewing, camping and boating at Farragut State Park. Bonita also taught and danced with Crossroads Country in Post Falls. They performed all over the Silver Valley and Coeur d’Alene. 

As her dementia progressed, Bonita continued to find joy in the simple things. She loved going on walks, picking up rocks and pinecones and having ice cream at the Treetop. Throwing the ball for Michelle’s golden retriever, Piper, having tea with Sharon next door, driving in the mountains over to Murray, Thompson Falls, Noxon and Missoula to get a blizzard from Dairy Queen. Her husband, John, was by her side, supporting her every step of the way. 

Bonita was preceded in death by her brother, Bradford; her son, Daniel John; and many other beloved family members. 

She leaves behind a legacy of love and adventure, cherished by her children, Michelle, Tamara (Larry), Daniel and Christina (Leonard); grandchildren Nicholas (Darcee), Matthew (Kelsey), Keisha (Dan), Kayla, Stephan, Justin, Tre and Cam; and countless friends and family members. 

A memorial Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Mullan, Idaho, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice. Bonita worked with many different organizations, schools and events and her spirit of giving will live on through your generosity. Thank you all for making her life beautiful. 

Memories of Bonita and messages of condolence may be shared with her family online at www.shoshonefuneralservice.com. Shoshone Funeral Services, Kellogg, is assisting the Erickson family with arrangements.