Erv is a former NBA basketball player and college basketball coach, serving as the head coach of the North Dakota State University men’s basketball team from 1978 to 1992. Erv’s commitment to community service and philanthropy is equally remarkable. He has been key in numerous fundraising efforts with the Dakota Medical Foundation. He has also spearheaded fundraising drives, established endowments for most NDSU sports, and organized goodwill trips to the Bahamas to support children and the elderly. Erv also served as a city commissioner from 1994 to 2000, Erv served on the Salvation Army board including heading the 2010 kettle campaign. He is also a motivational speaker.

Erv and his wife, Linda, have two sons and five cherished grandsons. Erv's dedication to service, leadership, and community upliftment never ceases to inspire.