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Port Angeles Today
By the People, for the People
Retired Clallam County Judge Lauren Erickson Dies at 70
Erickson was the first woman appointed to serve as a Clallam County Superior Court judge.
Published on Feb. 24, 2026
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Retired Clallam County Superior Court Judge Lauren Erickson has passed away at the age of 70. Erickson, a Seattle native, served on the bench from 2019 until her retirement in 2025, making history as the first woman appointed to the Clallam County Superior Court. Prior to her judicial career, Erickson worked as a private attorney, deputy prosecuting attorney, administrative law judge, and land use hearing examiner. She also served on the Port Angeles City Council from 1999 to 2006.
Why it matters
Erickson's passing marks the end of an era for the Clallam County legal community, as she was a trailblazer and respected jurist who left a lasting impact through her service on the bench and in local government. Her death is a significant loss for the Port Angeles area, where she was known for her dedication to the community.
The details
Erickson died on Tuesday, February 17th, at the age of 70. She graduated from Roosevelt High School in Seattle in 1973, earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Washington in 1977, and later received her law degree from Seattle University Law School in 1989. Over the course of her legal career, Erickson served in various roles, including as a private attorney, deputy prosecuting attorney, administrative law judge, and land use hearing examiner. In February 2019, she made history as the first woman appointed to serve as a Clallam County Superior Court judge, a position she held until her retirement in January 2025.
- Erickson graduated from Roosevelt High School in Seattle in 1973.
- Erickson earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Washington in 1977.
- Erickson received her law degree from Seattle University Law School in 1989.
- Erickson served on the Port Angeles City Council from 1999 to 2006.
- Erickson was appointed as a Clallam County Superior Court judge in February 2019 and served until her retirement in January 2025.
- Erickson passed away on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the age of 70.
The players
Lauren Erickson
A retired Clallam County Superior Court judge who was the first woman appointed to serve on the bench. She had a long and distinguished legal career, including roles as a private attorney, deputy prosecuting attorney, administrative law judge, and land use hearing examiner.
Brent Basden
A Clallam County Superior Court judge who praised Erickson's dedication to the community and her ability to connect with others.
What they’re saying
“Erickson was 'quick to smile and laugh,' and that she loved sharing ideas and always made time for others.”
— Brent Basden, Clallam County Superior Court Judge
“She treasured the opportunity to serve her community as a judge.”
— Brent Basden, Clallam County Superior Court Judge
What’s next
Plans for memorial services have not yet been announced.
The takeaway
Erickson's passing marks the end of an era for the Clallam County legal community, as she was a trailblazer and respected jurist who left a lasting impact through her service on the bench and in local government. Her death is a significant loss for the Port Angeles area, where she was known for her dedication to the community.
