Russell G. Johnson

December 27, 1932 - October 13, 2018

The Celebration of Life Open House for Russell G. Johnson of Verndale will be held Tuesday, October 23, from 3:00 until 6:00 p.m. at the Johnson-Schuller Chapel in Wadena. Russell, age 85, passed away, unexpectedly of natural causes, on October 13, 2018, at his home in rural Verndale, MN. Russell was born to John Russell and Florence Elizabeth (Grover) Johnson on December 27, 1932 in Ellsworth, WI, and lived the majority of his life in Minnesota. Before graduating high school he joined the US Air Force in 1950 and served during the Korean Conflict until his honorable discharge in 1954. Russell was united in marriage with Mary F. Harris. They later separated ways. Russell was a generous, fun-loving man. He, along with their mother, raised their kids to be respectful and hard-working people. He found a livelihood in a warehouse shipping and receiving department. In his time away from work, Russ appreciated and closely observed the outdoors, and especially enjoyed hunting. Preceding Russ in death were his parents John and Florence; step-mother Winifred (Stockins) Johnson; and sisters Patricia Seng and Lois Eikos. Russ is survived by his children Robert (Brenda) Johnson of Farmington, Nancy (Eric) Erickson of New Auburn, WI, Diane (James) Greer of Baxter, TN and Debra (Mark Roeser) Johnson of Shakopee, MN; six grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren; sisters Jane (Ralph) Matson and Mary (Eric) Hansen; and many nieces and nephews. Burial will be in Wing River Union Cemetery, Wing River Township, MN.