Gerald was born in Marshall County, MN on April 22nd, 1934 to Wayne and Evelyn (Peterson) Johnson where he was raised on the family farm near Middle River, MN.

In June 1957 he was united in marriage to LaRue (Fricker) Johnson.

The couple resided in Germany while Gerald served in the US Army before settling in Waukegan, IL. In 1969 the family established a family farm in Smiley Township east of Thief River Falls, MN until retirement.

Gerald was an avid flight instructor, private pilot, mechanic, and farmer. He enjoyed nature, long walks, and tinkering!

Gerald is survived by daughter, Tami Johnson (MN), and sons, Bruce (Diana) Johnson (FL), and Kris Johnson (FL). Four grandchildren, Melissa Johnson, Nicole (Matt) Gust, Megan (Jason) Sherman, and Ryan (Jennelle) Johnson, six great-grandchildren, sister Arlene (Bob) Prestebak and brother Richard (Gretagail) Johnson.

Gerald was preceded in death by his wife LaRue Johnson, son Michael Johnson, brother Dennis (Cherie) Johnson, sister-in-law Gretagail Johnson, and great-granddaughter Julia Johnson.

A family memorial was held in Florida.

A summer memorial service in Minnesota is pending.