Michael B. Johnson

Michael Boyd Johnson, age 79, of Harris, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 2, 2025. Michael was born on March 14, 1945, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, the cherished only child of Boyd and Dolores (Wallraff) Johnson.

Raised in Shoreview, Minnesota, Michael graduated from Cretin High School, Class of 1963. He later pursued his passion for electricity, becoming an electrician and dedicating 32 years of service to Northern States Power (NSP), where he retired with pride.

In 1974, Michael’s life took a beautiful turn when he met Jenell Jwanouskos, the love of his life. Though they had grown up just houses apart, it took a special introduction from Jenell’s father for their paths to finally cross. Their connection was immediate, and after three months, they became engaged, marrying on December 4, 1976. Their marriage of over 48 years was built on a foundation of love, laughter, and shared dreams.

The young couple started their family in Shoreview before moving to a beautiful tree farm in the North Branch/Sunrise area. There, Michael and Jenell found a peaceful sanctuary surrounded by nature, where deer, turkeys and wild birds were frequent visitors to their yard. Michael’s love for the outdoors was reflected in his passion for fishing and hunting, particularly his involvement with the Lucky 11 Hunting Club in Sturgeon, Minnesota.

Michael’s love for the outdoors was a defining part of his life, shaped by cherished childhood summers spent with his parents in Grand Marais, Minnesota. This annual tradition of renting a cabin and enjoying the serenity of Lake Superior remained a cornerstone of family life, one his children and grandchildren continue to honor today. No trip to Grand Marais was complete without driving the Gunflint Trail, a ritual Michael and Jenell cherished no matter the season. 

One of Michael’s favorite pastimes during these visits was walking the shore of Bear Beach, searching for agates and unique rocks—a simple yet profound joy that reflected his ability to find wonder in nature’s small details.

Michael and Jenell’s sense of adventure extended to spontaneous day trips in the car. Armed with popcorn, French bread, and Orange Crush, they’d set out with no particular destination in mind, often finding themselves in eastern Wisconsin or Michigan before deciding to turn around and head home. These impromptu road trips were a celebration of their shared love of discovery and the joy of each other’s company.

Closer to home, the couple enjoyed taking their pontoon out on Balsam Lake in Wisconsin, their favorite spot to relax and explore the shoreline. In retirement, they embraced new adventures, purchasing ATVs and a side-by-side for weekend excursions. Their travels took them as far as the Black Hills of South Dakota, creating more memories filled with exploration and the beauty of the outdoors.

Home was Michael’s heart. After years of travel for his work, he found joy in the simple things—spending time with his family, tending to his home, and enjoying the quiet moments of life. He was a man of warmth, humor, and kindness, known for his patience and generosity. Whether debating the superiority of Hydrox cookies over Oreos or lending a hand to those in need, Michael’s positive spirit and caring nature made a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Michael is preceded in death by his parents, Boyd and Dolores Johnson. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jenell; children, James (June) Johnson, Sean Johnson, and Jill (Brady) Johnson; grandchildren, Kara, Michael, Emily, Alyssa, and Nicholas; and many other family members and friends who will miss him deeply.

A Celebration of Life to honor him will be held at 7:00 p.m., Friday, March 14, 2025 which would be his 80th birthday at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake. The family will greet friends from 4:00 p.m., until the time of service at the funeral home.   In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred for a park bench that will be purchased in Grand Marais in his name.

May his memory be a blessing to all who were fortunate enough to know him.