John ‘Roger’ Johnson

John “Roger” Johnson passed away on March 16, 2022, at the age of 89. Born on February 20, 1933, he was baptized and confirmed in the Grand Meadow Lutheran Church.

He graduated from Grand Meadow High School in 1951. He lived his entire life in Grand Meadow other than while serving in the Army and recently living at Orchard Path assisted living in Apple Valley, MN.

Roger served in the United States Army from 1954-1956.

In 1957, Roger began employment at IBM in Rochester, where he worked for 32 years. He also farmed for much of that time, raising beef cattle along with corn, soybeans, oats and alfalfa.

In his teens and 20s Roger enjoyed spending time with his friends, teasing his nieces and nephews, going to drive-in movies, boating and water skiing, while dating Ila Lindelien. After marrying Ila, the love of his life, in 1961, they focused on raising a family with Brad (1965) and Candice (1968).

Roger was also active with the Grand Meadow American Legion and was an active member of the Grand Meadow Lutheran Church.

He liked polka and country music and his antique car. He took pride in keeping his farm looking neat and tidy. Roger took extreme pride in his family and the community of Grand Meadow.

He was preceded in death by Ila, his wife of 58 years; his parents, Elmer and Edith, and  older siblings Kenneth (Lorraine) and DeVera (Ernie).

He is survived by his son Brad (Michelle), daughter Candice (John) and grandchildren Kelsey (Tommy), Carter, Sierra, Sophia and Katrina.

Memorials to Grand Meadow Lutheran Church or Grand Meadow American Legion.