Garold "Gary" Johnson

Garold (Gary) Einar Johnson, age 90, of Wadena, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2025.

Gary was born on June 12, 1935, in Roseau, Minnesota, to Einar Johnson and Ellen (Larson) Johnson. He grew up with his family on a small farm in Malung County, where he learned the value of hard work and community from a young age.

As a teenager, Gary met the love of his life, Georjean Wickstrom, at a high school sock hop-when she boldly asked him to dance. Their love blossomed, and after Gary spent a year working in construction with his father, he joined the U.S. Army. He proudly served as a carpenter from January 18, 1955, to October 26, 1956, achieving the rank of Corporal.

Soon after returning home, Gary and Georjean were married on December 2, 1956, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love, laughter, and service.

Over the next 60 years, Gary dedicated himself to a variety of professions and communities. He worked for KROX radio station and Farm Bureau Insurance in Crookston, Minnesota. In 1981, he and Georjean moved to Burlington, North Dakota, where Gary served as a sales agronomist for Sigco. They returned to Minnesota in 1986, first to Thief River Falls, then settling in Wadena, where they became active and valued members of the community.

After retiring from his business career, Gary continued his lifelong commitment to service by working with Lutheran Social Services as a director for the Senior Companion Program- helping older adults maintain their independence and dignity through meaningful companionship.

Gary was a devoted member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Wadena and participated in numerous organizations, including the Elks, the Eagles, and the American Legion. Known for his generosity and patriotism, Gary loved crafting hats adorned with military insignias, which he gifted to fellow veterans at the VA Hospital in Fargo-a gesture that brought joy and pride to many.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Georjean; his parents, Einar and Ellen Johnson; and his sister-in-law, Jo Johnson.

Gary is survived by his loving family: daughter Kris Hurt and son-in-law Bob Hurt; son Scott Johnson and daughter-in-law Amy; grandchildren Sara, Jason, Clair, and Hannah; and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother James Johnson and sister-in-law Lona, and his sister Karin Johnson-Taylor and brother-in-law J.D.

Gary will be remembered for his deep love of family, his service to country and community, and his kind, humble spirit.

Funeral service: Saturday, October 18th, 2025, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Wadena, Minnesota.

Family will gather at 12:30pm with the public visitation beginning at 1:00 pm.

The funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm with the interment to take place in Malung, Minnesota in the Spring of 2026.

Following the service, all are invited to remain at the church for fellowship, coffee, lemonade, and homemade bars- a reflection of the hospitality that Gary so often shared.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to organizations supporting veterans or Immanuel Lutheran Church.

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

westfuneralhome.com