January 14, 2021 at 8:47 a.m.
Charles Johnson
Charles Johnson
Ace was born on October 27, 1931 to Oliver and Cecelia Johnson in Duluth, MN, and at a young age his family moved to Center City, MN. He graduated from Chi Hi School in Lindstrom, MN – where his exceptional hockey skills earned him the nickname ‘Ace’ that stuck with him for life. As a young man, he served in the Army during the Korean War, spending time working in communications overseas. Upon completion of his military service, he served as an active member of his local VFW. His enjoyment of music and dancing played a strong role in meeting his future wife, Kathryn (Kay) Nelson – they were married for 55 years until her passing in 2010. He was always her favorite dance partner, a tradition that continued with his daughter and granddaughters. He also demonstrated enjoyment in vocal music as an active member of the Indian Head Barbershop Men’s Chorus for several years.
Ace was a strong fixture of the community, serving in many capacities. He served as the Director of the Lakes Area Youth Hockey Association, President of the Wild River Snowmobile Club, and was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lindstrom, MN – where he led and served on many committees. He was a proud member of the local Masons – Hiram Masonic Lodge No. 287, where he served as Secretary for many years. He also volunteered with Meals on Wheels, and loved his years driving for ‘Taxi Tuesday’ – where he met so many wonderful people.
His working years included a short time at Honeywell Corporation in Minneapolis, before moving on to Northwestern Bell Telephone Company for over 35 years. He spent his retired years traveling, camping, and spending time with friends, family and grandchildren. His perfect day consisted of 70 degrees and sunshine, going out for breakfast, more than one cup of coffee with multiple games of cribbage, perhaps some 500 in the afternoon, and supper out with friends. It wouldn’t be uncommon to run into him at the Swedish Inn, Wagon Wheel, or the Lindstrom Bakery. When he wasn’t out and about, he could be found on his lawnmower, or relaxing in the house with one of his many newspapers.
Ace is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Kathryn, and his brother David.
Ace is survived by his children; Robyn (Michael) Savold, Ross (Andrea) Johnson; grandchildren; Katie (Pete) Wilson, Molly Savold, Morgan Johnson, Tyler Johnson, Hallie Johnson; great-grandchildren Peter and Lily Wilson; sister Barbara (Paul) Anderson; niece Beth Anderson, nephew Mitch Anderson, and sister-in-law Sherrie Johnson.
Ace was always grateful to be able to live his life to the fullest up to the very end. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Arrangements for a Celebration of Life Service will be made for a future date. Arrangements by Grandstrand Funeral Home in Lindstrom, MN. Condolences may be expressed online at www.grandstrandfh.com
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