Richard Leonard Johnson

Richard “Dick” Leonard Johnson

Richard “Dick” Leonard Johnson, age 84, passed away on April 16, 2026, in Mahtomedi, Minnesota.

Dick was born on October 28, 1941, to Carl and Harriet Johnson, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Beverly Konobeck and her husband Jerry, and his brother-in-law Jim Benson.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Artis Benson Johnson; his siblings Julie Errington (Dennis) and David Johnson (Anne); his in-laws Lynne Cooper, Karen Benson, Merri Dandl (Richard), and Dale Benson (Dianna); his children Pam Bjerke (Brian) and Tim Johnson (Kari); and his beloved grandchildren Aaron Thompson, Elliana Thompson, Lauren Van Weerdhuizen (Kolton), Anna Johnson, and Matthew Johnson. He also leaves behind 16 nieces and nephews who were dear to him.

Papa’s grandchildren held a very special place in his heart. He spent as much time with them as possible- caring for them alongside Artis when they were young, playing games, going on bike rides, attending their activities, celebrating birthdays with special one-on-one time, hosting sleepovers, and creating meaningful traditions. He cherished every opportunity to be with them and to show them his love, creating memories that will stay with them for a lifetime.

Dick worked as an electrical engineer and was known for both his skill and creativity. He had a deep love for creating with his hands- wood carving, chainsaw carving, stained glass, drawing, and building projects. One of his most meaningful projects was adding a mother-in-law apartment to his home so he and his wife could care for his aging parents.

He was also a gifted and self-taught musician, playing piano, accordion, guitar, and harmonica. He especially loved hymns and could recall the melodies of any that were sung, even in his final days. He knew all the words to every verse until just months before his death, even as dementia took many of his other abilities.

Dick enjoyed photography and even won contests for his work. He loved being active- fishing, playing softball, basketball, tennis, and golf, and especially riding his bike. For years, he took pride in riding miles every month, even through Minnesota winters. He also enjoyed doing puzzles.

More than anything, Dick loved people. He had a heart for helping others, a quality that remained even as he faced the challenges of dementia. He often expressed his desire to help in whatever way he could, continuing to serve others even while living in memory care.

He showed his love in quiet, faithful ways. He cared for his wife with tenderness while they both experienced dementia- sitting with her, singing to her, feeding her, and staying close. His family was always his priority, and he loved them deeply.

Dick also served at his church, volunteering in the parking lot where he welcomed others with warmth and kindness. He made sure those who needed closer access had a place, walked people in under his umbrella, and reflected the love of Jesus in simple, tangible ways.

An open house memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 9, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with a short service at 11:00 a.m. at First Evangelical Free Church, 2696 Hazelwood Street, Maplewood, Minnesota.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Apparent Project (apparentproject.org) or New Life Family Services (nlfs.org).

In his time in memory care, as family members said goodbye, they would often tell him they would see him again soon. With a smile, he would respond, “I can hardly wait.” That simple expression of love and anticipation became a reflection of who he was. We believe he is now whole, in the presence of Jesus, and that he looks forward to welcoming his loved ones and one day introducing us face-to-face to his friend, Jesus