Donald R. Johnson, beloved husband, devoted father, and faithful servant, passed away Monday, March 2, 2026, at the age of 89. He was the cherished husband of Mardell and loving father of Kimberly, Kirt, Scott, and Sharlene. Don had a special gift—everyone he met was a friend.

Don found joy in working in the woods, gardening, hunting and fishing, reading western novels and studying the newspaper’s sports section. Above all, he lived to serve his Lord and his family, quietly demonstrating his faith through kindness, humility, and steadfast love. Don leaves behind a family forever shaped by his example of faith, devotion, and love.

Born in Spring Lake Park, Minnesota, Don helped build a life and home with Mardell in Rush City, where they raised their family and were active members of Rush City Baptist Church. A hardworking man, Don spent 17 years at Minneapolis Moline and later built a long career as a truck driver, working nearly until age 80. Though often away for work, his love and presence were always deeply felt at home.

Don is survived by his wife Mardell Johnson of Arden Hills; children Kim (Jay) Hansen of Winona, Kirt (Tay) Johnson of Henriette, Scott (Susan) Johnson of Powder Springs, GA., Sharlene (Pat) Cullen of Dayton; 9 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-granddaughter; brother Alton (Lynn) Johnson of Rush City; sister Darlya Keasling of Rockford; sister-in-law Donna Johnson of Rush City; many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Gladys Johnson; twin brothers Jim Johnson, John (Lila) Johnson; brother Doug Johnson; granddaughter Nikki Hansen; great-granddaughter Olivia Johnson.

Pastor Mark Watkins will officiate Don's homegoing celebration: 2 PM on Saturday, April 4, 2026 with a visitation time starting 1:00 PM at Johanna Shores (Fellowship Hall) 3200 Lake Johanna Blvd., Arden Hills, MN 55112. **Please look for signs, park in the area for the Gables, and use that entrance rather than the main entrance.**

Memorials may be directed to:
Alzheimer's Association of Minnesota-North Dakota
12701 Whitewater Drive, Suite 290
Minnetonka, MN 55343
https://www.alz.org/mnnd
or
American Heart Association Minnesota
2750 Blue water Road, Suite 250
Eagan, MN 55121
https://www.heart.org/en/affiliates/minnesota

Arrangements are entrusted to: Funeral and Cremation Service of Rush City ~ Olson Chapel

www.FuneralAndCremationService.com