Obituary of Ralph Andrew Johnson

Ralph Andrew Johnson, age 85, of Duluth, passed away peacefully Wednesday, March 18, 2015. Ralph was born to Albert A. and Elin M. Johnson on August 2, 1929, in the Weber Hospital, in West Duluth. He graduated from Denfeld High School and then served in the U.S. Navy Seabee’s for five years, in Alaska and the South Pacific. Ralph married Patricia Pyette on June 28, 1957, in Duluth. Ralph worked for the Diamond Tool & Horseshoe Company as a tool and die maker for 36 years, retiring in 1991. He was a member of Mt. Olive English Lutheran Church served on its Board of Church Properties, Men’s Club and was Captain of the bowling team. Ralph was active with the Boy Scouts, Little League and helping to build the field in Duluth Heights. He enjoyed many years at the cabin on Pequaywan Lake and worked on many boat motors. Ralph spent many hours tinkering in his garage and fixing small motors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and traveling, especially the bus trips to Florida. He and Patricia were able to visit all 50 states. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Jim. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Pat; sons, Donald (Theresa) Johnson of Esko, Richard (Becki) Johnson of Proctor and daughter, Peggy (Roger) Gustofson of Hermantown; grandchildren, Matthew, Tim (Liz), Erik (Heidi), Jason, Kyle and Kelly; five great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Mary Jane Johnson. The family would like to extend a special thank you to George Mousky for his weekly visits and to the nurses and caregivers at Viewcrest Health Center. A special thank you to Nan, Chris, Jody and Matt for surrounding Ralph with love and kindness while providing exceptional care. Gathering of family and friends from 10am until the 11am memorial service Saturday, March 21st at Mt. Olive English Lutheran Church, 2012 E. Superior St., Duluth. Arrangements entrusted to Cremation Society of Minnesota, 218-624-5200. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mt. Olive Lutheran Church or the Parkinson Disease Foundation.