Robert Michel Johnson

St. Anthony - Johnson, Robert Michel "Bob" passed away on April 28th, 2025 at the age of 103. He was born on March 17th, 1922 to Alfred and Mary (May) Johnson, and preceded in death by loving wife, Dorothy and eldest son, Michael. He is survived by brother, Kenneth (Jean); sons, Steven (Patricia), Jeffrey (Terri), Timothy (Terese); 10 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Bob lived a life of remarkable achievements, defined by unwavering integrity and a strong appreciation for learning and growth. He embraced new technology and always shared his enthusiasm for innovation. He naturally assumed or was entrusted with leadership roles in nearly every endeavour. Larger than life, a commanding figure with a heart of gold, Bob's highest devotion was to his family. Bob graduated from Edison High School and studied engineering at the University of Minnesota. He served in WWII as a Navy Pilot based on the Pacific Islands primarly Tarawa. After the war he embarked on a 40+ year career with Honeywell, rising from Tool Designer to Director of Advanced Manufacturing Technology. Bob was active in the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME), and went on to serve as the International President for the 40,000+ member organization. Bob began his 25 year second career at St. Thomas University, helping to launch the graduate program in Engineering and serving as an adjunct professor. He taught the course "Automated Systems in the US and Overseas" until he was 93. His wife Dorothy had an adventurous spirit whose zest for life complimented his own. Together they raised 4 boys, creating cherished memories on family road trips, camping, skiing and visiting loved ones. He coached football, baseball, and basketball at Waite Park, St, Charles, and Totino Grace High School, instilling values of fairness and integrity in young athletes. He was also a Cub Scout Leader and a member of the Lions Club. In their later years, Bob and Dorothy ("Bob and Dor") explored the world. They loved to travel, and to learn about different cultures. They enjoyed a winter getaway on the island of Montserrat for many years. They participated in as many of their grandchildren's events as possible. The love they poured upon the family will last forever. Bob's legacy of devotion and love to family, high integrity, passion for learning, adapting and education, will endure in the countless lives he touched. He was a force, and he will be missed. A more detailed biography of Bob are contained in two publications: Voices from Minnesota by Jerry Abraham and The Engineer's Guide to Authentic Leadership by Ronald J. Bennet and Elaine R. Millam Visitation at Washburn-McReavy Hillside Chapel 2610 19th Ave NE Minneapolis Monday, May 5 4-7pm Service at St. Olaf Church Catholic Church, 215 S 8th St. Minneapolis Tuesday, May 6 9am Review, 10am Mass with reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Olaf Catholic Church or Silver Lake Residents Association. www.Washburn-McReavy.com