In Loving Memory of Steve Johnsen

Steve Johnsen, Amnicon Lake, Superior, WI, passed away on November 15, 2025, in Esko, MN at age 74. Steve was a lifelong resident of the northland and is survived by his wife of 50 years, Rita of Amnicon Lake, WI, daughters Julia (Brian) Matakis of Wheaton, IL, and Jessica Mohn-Johnsen of Duluth, MN, and four grandchildren—Emilia, Sadie, Josephine, and Luke—who carry forward his legacy of curiosity and humor. He is also survived by his sister, Pam (Joe) Mulvihill of Andover, MN, sister-in-law, Claudia Johnsen, Eagan, MN, his niece and four nephews to whom Steve was known as “Uncle Toys.”

He is preceded in death by his parents, Loren and Joyce Johnsen; his brother, Terry Johnsen; brother-in-law James Mattila; and many cherished friends who left us too soon.

Steve served his country in the US Navy from 1971 to 1972, embodying the values of discipline and honor. His commitment to public service continued for 32 years at the Western Lake Superior Sanitary District, where he retired as Director of Safety and Security. Colleagues remember him as a sincere and capable leader dedicated to his work and deeply caring for those around him. His passion for his work meant his children grew up with a unique understanding of waste management and public health, knowledge he shared with pride.

Steve was a curious person and lifelong learner of many interests—fishing, woodworking, traveling, hunting, and boating. He approached each hobby with enthusiasm and a spirit of encouragement, inspiring others to try new things and find a common camaraderie. Years spent trying to find the perfect apple trees for his personal orchard, boating on Lake Superior, and time spent with friends and family working on shared projects marked some of his most treasured memories. Together with Rita and his children, Steve embraced the beauty and challenge of the Apostle Islands, enduring storms and celebrating simple joys there each summer.

In retirement, Steve found pleasure in travel, exploring the world by cruise ship and sharing these experiences with Rita. Music was also a profound part of his life—he sang as a tenor in church choirs, for special events and for many years with the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Symphony Chorus. Handel’s Messiah held a special place in his heart, and his family was privileged to listen to the entire work with him in his final days.

Steve valued community and creativity. He dabbled in local theater at the Duluth Playhouse, bringing joy to his family and audiences alike. He was an active Rotarian for many years, engaged in many community projects and supported so many important initiatives in the northland.

Steve was a character of quick wit, a talented storyteller and a master conversationalist who could go deep and wide across myriad topics–a gift that opened people up, inspired confidence and created a sense of belonging. He had a special appreciation for fireworks, bonfires, boats, sandwich loaf, and the companionship of his dogs.

Above all, Steve Johnsen will be remembered as a generous man who cared deeply for his family and friends. His legacy is one of kindness, integrity, and enduring love—a life well lived, and a presence that will be profoundly missed.

Celebration of Life:

Friday, November 21, 2025 1-3pm

Visitation: 1-2pm

Service: 2-3pm

Cremation Society of MN

https://cremationsocietyofmn.com/about-us/duluth/

4100 Grand Avenue

Duluth, MN 55807

(218) 208-0377

Special thank you to Barnes Care Assisted Living in Esko, MN and to St. Croix Hospice for their support.

In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to:

Many Rivers Montessori Middle School Program

Attn: Middle School Strings

110 W Redwing St, Duluth MN 55803, USA 

https://www.givemn.org/story/tbm6cf

American Academy of Pediatrics Friends of Children Fund

Friends of Children Fund

Humane Society of Douglas County, WI