Donovan Johnson, Maple Lake

Donovan “Donny or Don” Johnson, age 77, of Maple Lake (formerly of Hamel and Howard Lake) passed away Friday, February 23, 2018 at his home surrounded by family.

Donovan Sheldon Johnson was born November 12, 1940 in Fosston, Minnesota to Lloyd and Josephine (Harvey) Johnson. He was baptized and confirmed at Calvary Lutheran Church in Winger, Minnesota and attended grade school in Winger and graduated from McIntosh High School. After graduation, Donny spent several years on the family farm in Winger.

On September 27, 1969, Donny was united in marriage with Eloise Olson. They lived in Winger until moving to Fridley in September 1970 where Donny started work with All- State hauling garbage (later to be known as BFI Woodlake). They welcomed daughter, Judy and son, James. In 1974, they moved to Hamel where Donny continued working in the garbage business for several years. Donny and family moved to Howard Lake in 1990. He and Eloise divorced in 1992. After leaving the garbage business, he worked for EBCO in Hopkins building wood trusses.

On July 16, 1994, Donny was married to Diane (Dee) Boehland in Howard Lake and they later moved to Maple Lake. Donny briefly retired in 2003, and later went to work at WalMart in Buffalo and then Jude Vending of Maple Lake. After retiring in 2010, Donny spent his time between Maple Lake and Fosston. He and his friend, Nola, could often be found at the local senior dances. Donny enjoyed listening to old time music and dancing, and could be found listening to the Wagon Wheelers, playing card games (especially wist and rummy), being outside, and spending time with family and friends. His grandkids were an important part of his life and he enjoyed all the time he was able to spend with them.

A special thank you to the staff at Virginia Piper Cancer Center in Buffalo and Allina Hospice for your help and support!

Donny is survived by his children: Judy (Mark) Boeckers of Buffalo and Jim Johnson of Montrose; friend: Nola Abele of Fosston, MN; grandchildren: Matt, Jordan, Austin, Abbi, Amanda, Bailey; brothers and sisters: Truman (Darlene) Johnson of Dilworth, MN, Linda (Butch) Pulskamp of Winger, MN, Sharon Johnson of Spring Lake Park, MN, Roy Johnson of Winger, MN, Bette (Eddie) Martin of New Brighton, MN, Dean Johnson of Winger, MN, Kelly Johnson of Winger, MN; brother-in-law: Marv Engesether of Plummer, MN; and many nieces, nephews, other family, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife: Diane; brothers: Llewellyn, Curtis, Bobby, Jay; sisters: Shirley, Judy; nephews: Brian, Billy, Andy; Niece: Sarah; and sisters-inlaw: Marie, Donna, and Nancy. Visitation will be held Monday, February 26, 2018 from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m., with a prayer service and time of sharing at 7:00 p.m., at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Maple Lake. Funeral services for Donny Johnson will be held Tuesday, February 27, 2018 at 11:00 p.m., with visitation one hour prior, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 5460 63rd St NW, Maple Lake, MN. Burial at Howard Lake Cemetery.

Serving the family is The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo. 763-682-1363. www.thepetersonchapel.com.

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