Kenneth Johnson

Minot

Kenneth L. Johnson, 92, Minot and lifelong Burlington area farmer, died peacefully on Thursday, January 16, 2025, in his home with his loving family at his side.

Kenneth Leroy Johnson was born February 26, 1932, in Burlington to Harvey and Elise (Pedersen) Johnson. He was raised on the farm in Burlington Township of Ward County. He attended school in Burlington until the family moved to Minot where Kenneth attended Minot Model High School. After graduating in 1950, he continued his education at Minot State University for two years before being drafted into the U.S. Army on October 24, 1952. He served from 1952 through 1954 in the Korean War. After his honorable discharge, he returned to the family farm.

Kenneth married DorisJean Rue on June 12, 1955, at Grandfield Lutheran Church in Sheyenne, ND. They made their home on the farm in Burlington where they raised their family. In 1987 they moved to Minot and enjoyed their winters in Carefree, AZ. They formed many lasting friendships, often at the local coffee shops. Kenneth cherished sharing his agricultural knowledge and proudly watched his son and grandsons carry on the family farm.

Kenneth attended family events at Peace Lutheran Church in Burlington and was a former member of First Presbyterian Church. For many years, he enjoyed being a member of the Minot Curling Club and golfing with DorisJean. Over the years, Kenneth served on the boards of the Burlington Township, Ward County Farm Bureau, and Ward County Planning Commission.

Kenneth supported his children and grandchildren in Burlington and Casselton by attending sporting events, graduations, weddings, and meeting new great grandchildren.

Those who spent time with him were blessed with his great stories of the past and his quiet sense of humor. The way he shared his love and laughter will truly be missed.

Kenneth’s loving family includes: his sons: Jay (Laurie) Johnson of Burlington and Kirk (Sara) Johnson of rural Casselton, ND; grandchildren: Bethany (Drew) Haner, Brianna (Jerick) Hedges, Travis (Megan) Johnson, Tanner (LeAnne) Johnson, Kaia Johnson and Jaden Johnson. His great grandchildren include Natalie, Trevor, Mariah, and Kendra Haner; Delaney, Jayse, and Dax Hedges; Myleigh and Mayah Johnson; and an upcoming Johnson great grandchild.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and siblings: Harvey Jr. Johnson, Ida Overly, and Evelyn Campbell.

Visitation: Thursday, February 6th. From 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with a time of prayer and remembrance to follow in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot, ND.

Celebration of the Life of Kenneth Johnson: Friday, February 7th, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, Burlington, ND.

Interment: Burlington Township Cemetery.

Memorials are preferred to Peace Lutheran Church.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.thomasfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Published by The Minot Daily News, February 3, 2025.