Obituary of Robert Elliott Johnson

Robert (Bob) Elliott Johnson passed away on October 11, 2017 at Chris Jensen Health Center at the age of 99. He was born in Grand Forks, ND on March 20, 1918 to Roy C Johnson and Corine Peterson. Bob spent his childhood in Proctor, MN, graduating from high school in 1936. He was employed by the DM&IR railroad for 40 years, retiring as Chief Dispatcher, a job his father held before him. He joined the US Coast Guard Reserve during WWII because he was occupationally deferred from directly serving. In 1940 he married Barbara L Gunderson whom he had known since childhood. They were married for 63 years before Barbara passed away in 2003. Together they raised four children in the Duluth area. Following retirement they lived primarily in Voyager Village WI and spent winters in Harlingen TX. Both loved to golf and were very competitive with each other! Bob was a member of the US Power Squadron for 20 years and a longtime member of the Masonic Lodge. Bob is survived by his children: Saundra (Sandy) (Rod) Monson, Hermantown MN, Steve (Carole) Johnson, Austin TX, Scott (Irene) Johnson, Ely MN, and Deborah (Robert) Hansen Frey, Mora MN; 8 grandchildren; Heather Ronding, Rob Monson, Eryka Johnson, Rebecca Johnson, Chris Johnson, Jeremy Ogston, Jodi Verhel, Cyona Harrison and 12 great-grandchildren; Amara Monson, Devyn Johnson, Annika and Nathan Johnson, Nicolas, Keeley and Michael Ogston, Easton and Aveya Verhel, and Wesley, Ariana, and Hattie Harrison. Bob is also survived by his very dear friend Margaret (Maggie) Bjorklund. The family wishes to thank the staff at Chris Jensen for their friendship and excellent care of Bob. If desired, memorials may be directed to Chris Jensen Activities Program 2501 Rice Lake Rd Duluth MN 55811. A private family service will be held. Between Bob's frequent moving and his "scooter escapades" following the loss of his driver's license, Bob has provided the family with great storytelling for years to come! "Honest Gramps strikes again!"