Harry Johnson

Harry W. Johnson, 90, a resident of St. Paul, died Saturday, January 16, 2010, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota. He was born October 24, 1919, in Rothsay, Minnesota, the son of J. Arndt and Ida (Erickson) Johnson. He grew up in Rothsay, and was baptized in Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, and confirmed in Hamar Lutheran Church. He graduated from Fergus Falls High School in 1937. During World War II he was in the U.S. Military as a member of the OSS (now known as the CIA). In this capacity he served in 26 countries, mostly in China and the eastern Asia region. He was employed by Montgomery Ward for 37 years, retiring in 1983. Harry was an avid sports fan, and his recollection of statistics from all games was phenomenal. His summer visits to Long Lake, and Alvin’s visits to St. Paul were special times of enjoyment for him. Preceding him in death were his parents and three brothers: Walter, Clifford, and Alexander. Survivors include three brothers: Lyle (Delia) Johnson, and Alvin Johnson, all of Rothsay, and Milton (Cecil) Johnson of Thornton, Iowa; two sisters: Alice Lutgen of St. Paul, and Blanche Oatman of Peoria, AZ; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation:  5-7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home with a 6:30 p.m. prayer service and resumes one hour prior to the service at the church. Funeral Service: 11 a.m. Saturday, January 23, 2010, at New Life Lutheran Parish – Our Saviors in Rothsay Clergy: Reverend Paul Huso and Pastor Milton Johnson Interment: Hamar Cemetery, Rothsay, MN Funeral Home: Olson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls Condolences may be sent online at www.olsonfuneralhome.com