1931 – Ronald V. Johnson – 2017
Ron, son of Vern and Milda (Frerk) Johnson Field was born on June 20, 1931 on a farm north of Hadley, Minnesota. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. He attended country school and graduated from Slayton High School. Ron proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. In 1953, he was united in marriage to Sylvia Larson. Their marriage was blessed with five children: Mark, Peter, Lynn, Paul and Chris. Ron graduated from South Dakota State University and taught Vocational Agriculture in Jackson, Minnesota for three years. He worked for the First National Bank in Jackson as an Ag loan officer, eventually becoming the bank’s president over the course of his career. During his years in banking, he was active in county, regional and state banking organizations. Ron was privileged to participate in national banking conferences relating to agriculture, as well as serving as an instructor in several banking schools. Ron’s love of his church and community was evident by his tireless service. He touched many lives. His leadership role in the beginning of the Jackson Development Corporation and its early accomplishments was one of his greatest prides. His love of the community of Jackson and its people was immeasurable. Outside of his working career, Ron was a talented wood carver and an avid reader. He was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, who was very proud of his family. Ronald passed away on June 15, 2017 at his residence at the age 85.
Ron will remain in the hearts of his wife of 64 years, Sylvia; children: Mark Johnson, Peter (Sandy) Johnson, Lynn (Craig) Carlson, Paul (fiancé, Sheila) Johnson, and Chris (Kristen) Johnson; nine grandchildren: Christine (Michael), Andrew, Laura (Dan), Caitlin (Brian), Jennifer, Devina (Gary), Jack, Ellie, and Sam; four great-grandchildren: Eleanor, Josephine, Caroline, and John; Belgian son, Ivo (Kathleen) Gielis; and several cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A Celebration of Ron’s Life was held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 20, 2017 at Bethel Lutheran Church – Highlands Campus, 504 Frontage Rd., Hudson, with Pastor John Lestock officiating. Interment at Highland Home Cemetery in Hadley, MN. Memorials are preferred to Bethel Lutheran Sunday morning radio broadcast, or donor’s choice. Funeral services are entrusted to the O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Hudson (715) 386-3725. www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com
