Obituary of James E. Johanson

Johanson, James E., M.D. Age 77 of Excelsior, MN. Born in St Louis, MO. Jim leaves behind his wife, Kati, and Erik (son) and Patty, Stephen (son) and Morgan, Kristen (daughter) and Sean, and Peter (son) and Mary. Brother of Ann. And Grandfather to Elisabeth, Anya, Molly, Gus, Romie, and Cecilia. Jim was known best as a talented surgeon and a caring doctor. He was proud to serve his country as a Major in the U. S. Army Medical Corps and to teach as a clinical professor for the University Minnesota. At his practice at Orthopedic Associates, he regaled patients and medical staff with his fanciful stories and charmed everyone with his smile, humility, and optimism. Co-workers commented frequently that he cared deeply and treated the patient, not just their ailment. He also dedicated time to Gillette Children's Hospital and Shriner's Children's Hospital where he was able to express his kindness towards children and apply his specialty to club foot treatment. In 1994 he was voted the top trauma orthopedist in Minneapolis-St. Paul by the medical community. Jim put passion into every activity he engaged. Early in life, we was a swimmer, basketball player, and Eagle Scout. He sailed scows on Lake Minnetonka and Torch Lake-often finishing last but winning many sportsmanship awards. He loved to ski with his family. He was an extremely dedicated violinist and a much adored member of the American Swedish Institute's Spelmanslag. Jim will be most loved and remembered as an exuberant Grandfather, teller of make-up stories, giver of nicknames, builder of water wheels, architect of treasure hunts, and dreamer. A memorial service will be at St. Luke Presbyterian Church in Way- zata, Sat 29 Nov - 1:30pm. Donations can be made in lieu of flowers to the Shriners Hospitals - Twin Cities (note Jim's name), 2025 E. River Pkwy, Minneapolis MN 55414 or ASI Spelsmanslag, at the ASI, 2600 Park Ave S, Minneapolis MN 55407.