Benjamin Russell Johnson

Benjamin Russell “Ben” Johnson was born April 14, 1931, in St. John, ND to Alfred & Irene Shaver Johnson. The middle child in a family of ten. Ben graduated Central High School, Devils Lake, ND, and the University of North Dakota. Ben was an electrical engineer for Honeywell for thirty-three years working in Minneapolis, MN, Wabash, IN and Arlington Heights, IL.

Ben was a loving and devoted husband for sixty-two plus years to Marilyn Rude Johnson. They have three children; Linda (Brent) Auman, Rockford, IL, Lisa (Tim) Bever, Lagro, IN, Blake (Ruth) Johnson, Plymouth, MN.

He was an amazing inspiration to his grandchildren; Kyle (Tricia), Lauren (Jakob), Marc (Holly), Jennie (Jason), Matt, Neil, Tyler, Breanna (Tucker), Grant, Maddy, and great-grandchildren: Ashlyn, Hunter, and baby girl due in June; Emma, and Jerrick.

He loved serving the Lord, golfing, wood working, gardening, working crossword puzzles, and a good project. The Lafayette Resort and Apache Wells held a special place in his heart. He taught us that family was a priority and he loved his brothers and sisters; Elaine Caldis (Gordy), Duane (Ann), Ray (Caryl), Lee (Betty), Larry (Marilyn), Brian (Susan), Marna Brown Keith (Brad), Brad, Larry Chaput. He was proceeded in death by his parents and sister, Lynn Engel.

Ben will be remembered as a kind and gentle man. Those around him recognized his quiet leadership style and his willingness to put others first. He served as president of his church councils, The Lafayette Resort, and Apache Wells homeowner’s association. His patience and humility will be his legacy. Ben’s final words to us were, “Have fun, have lots of fun.”

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, February 17, 2015, 12:00, noon at the Love of Christ Lutheran Church, 1525 North Power Rd, Mesa AZ. Please join the family for a reception in Fellowship Hall following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Love of Christ Music Department or Apache Wells Beautification.