Erik Charles Johnson

1957 - 2025

Duluth - Erik Charles Johnson, beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away in good company on the morning of August 3, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Erik was born in Annapolis, Maryland, where his father was active-duty teaching at the Naval Academy. He grew up in Northfield, Minnesota, alongside his parents, Barbara and Lowell Johnson, who still reside there. He was one of five children, sharing his childhood with brothers, Pierce, Karl, and Bernt, and sister, Inger.

A free spirit from an early age, Erik was renowned for marching to his own beat. In fact, he once ran away from preschool for being denied paint brushes during a finger-painting exercise. In the early 1980s, he found his calling as caretaker for Camp Olson in Longville, Minnesota, where he met Colleen Mary Otto, the camp nurse. They married in 1984 and welcomed their first two children, Walter and Emily, while at camp. Their third child, Forrest, was born in Rochester, Minnesota. They eventually put down roots in Duluth, Minnesota.

Erik was a man of many interests and talents, excelling in anything that sparked his curiosity. He particularly enjoyed target sports, motorcycles, and The Grateful Dead. His enthusiasm for life drew many friends who cherished his vibrant spirit.

Erik is survived by his devoted wife, Colleen; children, Walter (wife Julie) and their daughter Abby, Emily, and Forrest (partner Meghan); parents, Barbara and Lowell Johnson; and siblings, Pierce, Karl (wife Toni Ann), Bernt (wife Julie), and Inger (husband Dan). His warmth, creativity and zest for life will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Erik would have you all remember to follow your bliss, wherever it may lead you.

A funeral will be held at Saint John's Lutheran Church in Northfield, Minnesota, on August 11, 2025 at 11 a.m., followed by interment at Valley Grove Cemetery in Nerstrand, Minnesota, and a reception at Saint John's Lutheran Church.