Roger Elton Johnson

Roger E. Johnson, age 83, of Elk River, MN, passed away peacefully at Glenn Memory Care in Buffalo, MN, on February 3, 2026.

Roger was born on October 22, 1942, in Minneapolis, MN, to Elton and Lillian Johnson.  Roger’s family moved to a farm near Pine City when he was a child.  He grew up on this farm and attended Pine City High School, graduating in 1960.  Shortly after graduation, Roger enlisted in the US Navy and was honorably discharged in June of 1962.  Upon leaving the service, Roger was united in marriage to Angela DiMaggio, and they made their home in Cambridge, MN.  They welcomed a daughter, Tammy, on March 28, 1964.  Tragically, Angela died a few days after Tammy was born.  A year later, Roger married Joan Hancock and moved to Elk River to start anew.  Roger welcomed Joan’s son Scott, and together they were blessed with four more children: Brad, Michelle, Kristine, and Jackie.  They provided foster care for many years.

Roger built his career in the ornamental iron fabrication business as the owner of Rohn Iron Works. 

During his free time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and being outdoors.

Roger was preceded in death by his wives Angela and Joan; children Michelle and Jackie and his sister Sally Nowling.

He is survived by his children Scott (Laurie) Johnson, Tammy (Robert) Brant, Brad (JoEllyn) Johnson, and Kristine Emly.  Grandfather of: Mario (Carleigh) Brant, Danielle (Jake) Voss, Katherine (Wade) Wilson, Alex Johnson, Megan (Dylan) Johnson-Walters, Nick (Angela) Johnson, Rylan Emly, and Carson Emly.  Proud Great-Grandfather of Sophia Voss, Bentley Voss, Tate Brant, Mina Brant, and Dean Wilson.  Also survived by his sister, Donna Albrecht, and brother, Steve (Renee) Johnson, and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held at Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home, 311 S. Ashland St., Cambridge, MN, at 11 AM Friday, February 20, 2026

Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Interment will be at Cambridge Lutheran Church Cemetery with full Military Honors.

Arrangements by Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home 763-689-2244

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