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Wilton Palmer Johnson was born on October 29, 1930 near Grove City, Minnesota. He was baptized and confirmed at Arndahl Lutheran Church and graduated from Grove City High School in 1948. He married Gardella Beiber in 1951. They were blessed with three children and a marriage that lasted for over 40 years until Della’s death in 1991. He remarried in 1993 to Jackie Anderson and remained so until his passing.

Bill worked his early years on the farm and in a cabinet shop until graduating from the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Agricultural Education. Upon graduation he taught Woodshop and Agriculture classes at North Branch High School until 1974 when he left to pursue a long and successful career at AAL (Thrivent Financial).  Bill was a longstanding member of Trinity Lutheran Church and served many years as a youth leader. He also led the North Branch Chapter of FFA, served on the Chisago County Park Board for over 33 years as well as many other volunteer organizations. He enjoyed camping, roller skating, softball, snowmobiling, woodworking, and traveling and was very proud of the family home that he designed and built in 1966.

Wilton passed away peacefully December 4, 2017 at Aicota Healthcare Center in Aitkin, Minnesota.

He is preceded in death by his parents Mabel and Palmer Johnson; brothers Harlan and Donald Johnson; sister Delores Walls and wife Della Johnson.

He is survived by his wife Jackie Johnson; son Ken Johnson (Michelle) of Glendale, AZ; daughter Kathy Brasch (Rowland) of Carnation, WA; and son Kerry Johnson (Deb) of Cambridge, MN; six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, as well as many members of his ever expanding extended family.

Bill’s family wishes to express their appreciation and gratitude to the many family and friends who have been a source of comfort and support during this difficult time.

Memorial services 11 a.m. on Friday, December 8, 2017 at Trinity Lutheran Church in North Branch with Rev. Jon Yurk officiating.   Music by Deb Aulich as organist and Jon Ekstrom serving as soloist.  Visitation today, Thursday, December 7 from 4-7 p.m. at Grandstrand Funeral Home in North Branch and also one hour prior to the service at church Friday.  Interment follows the service at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in North Branch.

Arrangements under the direction and care of Grandstrand Funeral Home in North Branch.  Condolences may be expressed online at www.grandstrandfh. com.

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