Mel Johnson

Mel Johnson, 81, of Grand Forks, ND, passed away on Thursday, January 21, 2016, in Valley Eldercare, Grand Forks.

Melville Erland Johnson was born on April 24, 1934, in Warren, MN, to Richard and Hannah (Ranstrom) Johnson. He was baptized at Immanuel Lutheran Church of Vega and grew up on the family farm in Vega Township, MN. He began working for Northern Pacific Railroad after graduating from high school. In 1955, Mel enlisted in the US Navy and proudly served his county until his honorable discharge in 1961.

On April 18, 1964, Mel was united in marriage to Darlene Finney. The couple made their home in Johnstown, ND, where Mel worked for the railroad. Later in his career, Mel spent time on the road for Burlington Northern, working in International Falls, Minneapolis, and many other cities in Minnesota and North Dakota.

After retiring, Mel and Darlene moved to New Mexico where Mel spent most of his time pining to return to “God's Country.” After several years, they returned to the Grand Forks area, where they have lived since.

Mel was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the East Grand Forks American Legion. He was a self-taught guitar and keyboard player and could play most any song by ear. Mel loved to visit and will be remembered for his ability to talk to anyone, whether family member, friend, or stranger.

Mel is survived by his wife of over 51 years, Darlene; sisters-in-law, Lois Johnson, Judith Lizakowski, and Sharon (Steve) Bartlette; and nephew, Larry (Jill) Teters.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Walden Johnson.

Funeral Service: Tuesday, January 26, 2016, at 2:00 PM, in DuBore Funeral Home Chapel, Warren, MN; with visitation one hour prior.
Interment: Vega Lutheran Cemetery, Rural Warren, MN.

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