Wayne Leroy Johnson

1936 - 2026

Wayne L. Johnson, age 89 of Elk River, passed away peacefully and entered into eternal life on January 23, 2026.

He was born March 20, 1936 in Anoka to Julia and Victor Johnson. Wayne grew up on the family farm on Anoka's east side, where a lifelong love of land took root. He served in the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in England where he met the love of his life, Marlene. They married and raised three daughters, Ardell, Angie and Anita. After his military service, Wayne built a successful career in commercial real estate and eventually founded his own company. Despite his business accomplishments, he always returned to his farming roots, proudly owning land and spending time driving his John Deere tractors. Wayne was also a Paul Harris Fellow in the Rotary International, he was one of the first CCIMs (Certified Commercial Investment Member) to be pinned in the state of Minnesota, and he was an active SEC member (Society of Exchange Counselors).

Wayne was preceded in death by his wife, Marlene; parents, Julia and Victor Johnson; siblings, Albin Johnson, Ruth Mochinski, Ruby French, Jimmy Johnson and Leland Johnson.

He was survived by his sister, Gloria Erickson; daughters, Ardell, Angie Ditty (Dave), Anita Johnson; grandchildren, Max (Kylie) and Lexi Ditty; great-grandkids, Hudson and Blake Ditty.

Wayne will be remembered for his strong work ethic, quiet pride in ownership of land, and devotion to family. Wayne was a life-long Christian, seeking the Lord's guidance until his last days.

A heartfelt thank you to Presbyterian Homes/ SummerWood of Plymouth and Optage Hospice who so diligently and gently cared for our dad over the past 2 years.

Services for Wayne held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 starting with a visitation from 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM followed by the funeral service at 11:30 AM at Thurston-Lindberg Funeral Home, 2005 Branch Ave, Anoka, MN 55303. Wayne will be laid to rest at Forest Hill Cemetery in Anoka, MN. Reception following the service at the American Legion in Anoka, 400 W Main St, Anoka, MN 55303 from 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM.

Thurston-Lindberg Funeral Home Anoka

763-421-0220

www.thurston-lindberg.com