Frank M. Johnson, 83, of Owatonna, died Tuesday, September 13, 2016 at his home.
Frank Marvin Johnson was born October 21, 1932 in Albert Lea, Minnesota the son of Lloyd and Elsie (Pfeifer) Johnson. He grew up in Ellendale where he attended school and graduated from Ellendale High School, Class of 1950. Following his schooling, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged on June 19, 1954. On June 26, 1955, Frank was united in marriage to Jo Ann Smith at the Congregational Church in New Richland. The couple made their home in Owatonna where they raised their family. Frank worked at Jostens for 44 years and as a courtesy driver for Ford in Owatonna for 14 years, which he credited for helping to keep him busy and healthy following Jo Ann’s death in 2003.
He was an avid fan of many sports. He enjoyed playing baseball, softball, basketball and football and served as an umpire for many games as well and refereeing in the adult volleyball league. He especially enjoyed attending the sporting events of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Other activities that Frank enjoyed include gardening, fishing, traveling, casino trips and grilling out with his family. Frank was a member of the Owatonna American Legion Post #77 and Associated Church in Owatonna.
He is survived by his children, Nancy (Russ) Phillips of Santa Clarita, CA, Mark (Julie) Johnson of Owatonna and Jodi (Scott) Johnson Kuck of Owatonna; siblings, Don (Donna) Johnson of Kasson, Donna Mae (Jim) Sellner of Owatonna and Janice Spatenka of Owatonna; brother-in-law, Ronny Lurken of Faribault; 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Jo Ann; daughter, Debbie; sister, Marlene Lurken; and brother, Ronald Johnson.
Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Friday, September 16, 2016 and 1-2 p.m. on Saturday, September 17, 2016 all at Michaelson Funeral Home in Owatonna. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, September 17, 2016 at Michaelson Funeral Home in Owatonna with Reverend Coqui Conkey officiating. Military honors will be provided by the Steele County Military Funeral Unit. A private inurnment will be in St. Peter Cemetery in New Richland.