Alan (AJ) Johnson

life story

Beloved Brother

Alan Leroy Johnson (also known as AJ) of Wasilla, Alaska, passed away on January 14, 2026, after a courageous battle with bone cancer.

Alan was born on June 13, 1962, in Bismarck, North Dakota, the fourth child of Vernon L. (Pete) Johnson, Sr. and Evelyn (Adams) Johnson. He was raised on the family farm near Baldwin, North Dakota until 1968, when the family moved to Tuttle, North Dakota. Alan grew up as a typical farm kid-helping with chores, attending school in Tuttle, and working for neighboring farms as soon as he was old enough.

As a young adult, Alan worked a variety of jobs across the country. In the early 1990s, he took a break from his travels to attend classes at the college in Bottineau, North Dakota, where he also worked as a bartender. However, Alaska was calling. Alan and his young wife made the journey north with a couple of dogs and their red Ford pickup. The marriage later ended, but Alan remained in Alaska, where he purchased land and built an A-frame cabin. He joined IBEW LU 1547 as a utility locator, one of his proudest accomplishments. He later purchased a larger home with acreage, where he lived until his illness progressed.

In November, Alan relocated to Hastings, Minnesota, where he stayed with his brother and sister-in-law and received hospice care. During this time, he was able to enjoy Thanksgiving with his siblings, a reunion that had not occurred in 15 years.

Unfortunately, the cancer took over and the good Lord said it was time for Alan. He passed away peacefully with family and friends, including 2 nurses. Always the ladies’ man.

Alan was preceded in death by both sets of grandparents, his parents, and nephews Ryan and Justin King.

He is survived by siblings Barb King, Susan Johnson, Vernon Johnson Jr., Tim (Val) Johnson, Annette Johnson, and Bryan (Dawn) Johnson; nieces Nicole and Brittni; and nephews Tyler and Zach.

Alan will be cremated with a memorial service to be held in the spring.

memorial service

Memorial Service

May 22, 2026

Service time and location TBD

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Crescent Tide Cremation Services