Planned estate gift establishes the Jim and Peggy Erickson and Harbor Foods Family Scholarship
Longtime Grays Harbor businessman Jim Erickson’s journey through Grays Harbor College inspired a significant planned gift to the GHC Foundation. To support GHC students and create a lasting family legacy, Jim’s estate established the Jim and Peggy Erickson and the Harbor Foods Family Scholarship.
Jim grew up in Aberdeen and attended J.M. Weatherwax (Aberdeen) High School, graduating in 1947 after serving as Senior Class President. He then attended Grays Harbor College before transferring to the University of Washington in 1950, where he earned a degree in Business Administration. Concurrently, Jim completed his military service with the Washington National Guard.
After graduation, Jim returned to Aberdeen and joined his father and brother Bob (Carl R.) in the family business, West Coast Produce Co., founded in 1923 by Jim’s father, Carl. In 1954, the company was renamed Harbor Wholesale Grocery Inc., later becoming Harbor Foods Group Inc. in 2019, the parent company of Harbor Wholesale and Harbor Foodservice.
Jim worked alongside his nephews (Bob, Mike, and Steve Erickson), spending most of his career in sales and pioneering the company’s expansion into new markets. He passed away on March 10, 2021.
Service was a cornerstone of Jim’s business and life. He and his wife Peggy were active in numerous local organizations, and his commitment to the Grays Harbor community will continue through his planned gift to the GHC Foundation.
“The Erickson’s are one of those Harbor stories I love to hear. A family that works hard, builds a business, values education, and continues to serve the community even after they are gone,” expressed Alissa Shay, GHC Foundation Board Member. “The Grays Harbor College Foundation is honored that Mr. Erickson entrusted us with this gift to support the dreams and aspirations of tomorrow’s community and business leaders.”
