Ron (Ronald) Johnson

life story

Devoted husband, father and papa.

Ron will be forever loved and remembered for his quiet, unyeilding committment to his family. He was the strong, solid foundation from which a beautiful, full and vibrant life grew and thrived.

Keenly observant, always with a twinkle in his eye and a bit of mischief in his smile, his gentle presence, quick-witted jokes and protective nature will be deeply missed.

A life well lived...

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ronald "Ron" Johnson on June 25, 2024, at the age of 76. Ron was a beloved husband, father, papa, and friend whose presence enriched the lives of everyone who knew him.

Ron was born on January 20, 1948, to Julian Johnson and Opal Rosengren in Fergus Falls, Minnesota. He was raised by his dad, Julian, and his adoptive mom, Harriette Johnson, alongside his younger brother, Kent.

Ron met the love of his life, Dorie, during the summer after his 10th-grade year at Fergus Falls High School. The two fell in love and shared their first kiss under Mrs. Johansen's oak tree. They married on August 19, 1967, in Sisseton, South Dakota, with their best friends, Ray and Donna Murray, in attendance. The couple built their first home in Forest Lake, Minnesota. There they raised their two children and many foster children and became deeply embedded in their community for over 40 years before retiring to their beloved lake home in Pine City, Minnesota.

Ron devoted numerous weekends to the Army Reserves while working and attending college courses in the evening. His hard work and dedication paid off as he became an electrical engineer with Xcel Energy, a career he was very proud of and which spanned over five decades.

Ron enjoyed many hobbies and activities and approached life with a spirit of adventure and curiosity. He found great joy in fishing, hunting, and trapshooting, spending countless hours perfecting his skills and sharing his love for the outdoors with others. His mechanical prowess was evident in his love for working on cars, always eager to take on a new project or engineer something extraordinary at the lake.

He loved traveling and creating lifelong memories with Dorie, his daughter Jessica (Chris), son Tony, grandson Jonah, and many close friends and family members. One of his favorite pastimes was sitting on an oceanside patio, watching the sunset over the water, while enjoying a favorite cigar.

Ron was a man of profound compassion and dedication, providing a safe and loving home for innumerable foster children over the years. He cared deeply about equity, respect, and dignity for all human beings. As an expert tinkerer, he spent many hours sharing his knowledge of drills, table saws, and engines with his son-in-law, Chris. He enthusiastically supported his son Tony at Special Olympics events and attended every Boy Scout camping trip and service project. Ron took immense pride in his daughter, Jessica, instilling in her the values of hard work and quiet integrity. He also cherished goofing around with his grandson, Jonah, affectionately calling him "Bug."

Ron leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. He is survived by his devoted wife, Dorie, his children, grandson, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and countless friends who became family. Ron's sense of humor and calm presence will forever be a light for those who were fortunate enough to know him. His family takes comfort in knowing that his heart can rest and he can finally breathe easy.

In honoring Ron's wishes, a private memorial will take place at a later date to pay tribute to a remarkable man who will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Customized Options Nonprofit, an organization close to Ron's heart.

memorial service

Memorial Gathering

In honoring Ron's wishes, a private memorial will take place at a later date to pay tribute to a remarkable man who will be deeply missed.