Jon O. Johnson, aged 89, of Hastings, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 11, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on June 23, 1935, in Fulda, MN, to Eddie and Inga (Gilbertson) Johnson. Jon’s early years were spent in Mankato. He worked at the family mink ranch during his teenage years, and after graduation, he joined the Navy, where he served as a radioman on the USS Lofberg, navigating the waters of the Pacific near Korea and Japan. He was a dedicated veteran, serving his country with pride.
Throughout his lifetime, Jon held various jobs, culminating in his retirement from the Veterans Home in Hastings at the age of 79. He was a beacon of strength and inspiration, having been 38 years sober and “fathered” many young men who considered him “dad.”
Known for his love of flowers, particularly red roses, Jon brought home blooms weekly until his recent diagnosis of terminal stage 4 cancer affecting his lungs, liver, and bones. Despite his health challenges, he remained active, walking a mile every day and never had any pain.
Jon was a grateful, spirit-filled man of God and has the gift of eternal life.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen of 34 years; his previous wives, Sondra and Elaine; his sons, Scott, Jeremy (Ashley), Duane (Karen), Garth (Chris); daughters, Jerryann Faith and Tonya; five grandchildren: Creighton, Harrison, Camden, Ethan, and Gavin; his sister, Kathleen; sister-in-law, Marilyn; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Dean.
Jon will forever be cherished and deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, remembering him for the remarkable man he was.
A funeral service to honor Jon’s life will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Monday, July 22, 2024, at the Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St, Hastings, MN 55033, with a visitation at 3 p.m. and then following the service until 6:00 PM. Burial will take place on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, 7601 34th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55450, with full military honors.
Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel is entrusted with the arrangements.
