Jerry Johnson

Jerry Dean Johnson was born on March 10, 1943, in Oakland, Nebraska, to Karl and Anna (Danielson) Johnson. He grew up on the family farm, where he learned the value of hard work. He attended a one-room school through eighth grade, and thanks to neighbors who took him to Sunday school, his faith took root.

Jerry continued his education in Craig, Nebraska, where he played basketball and sang in the choir. After graduating in 1961, he attended Midland Lutheran College, intending to become a math teacher and basketball coach. When his father’s health declined, he returned home to help on the farm. In 1966, he joined the Army reserves and was honorably discharged in 1970.

On April 7, 1968, Jerry married Donna Adell Anderson at First Baptist Church in Tekamah, Nebraska. They raised two children, Angela Sue and Jed Andrew, on the family farm, where Jerry worked for 30 years before moving on to new adventures. He also held the position of Burt County Supervisor from 1990 to 1994.

In 1994, Jerry and Adell moved to Sioux Falls, where he worked for Tel Drug, then on to Lawrence, Kansas, in 1996, where he became a car salesman. In 2001, they settled in Luverne, Minnesota, where Jerry drove truck for local farmers until he retired in 2015. Wherever he went, he built friendships and served his church and community.

As a young man, Jerry attended a Billy Graham Crusade and committed his life to Jesus. He was discipled by Adell’s father, Dean, her brother, Delwin, and many others along his journey. He served as a deacon, trustee, youth leader, and Sunday school superintendent in the various churches he attended. He also found joy in mission work, helping rebuild homes in hurricane-stricken areas and serving with Matthew 6 Ministry and Atlas of Rock County. He was a member of the American Reformed Church in Luverne.

Jerry loved being a grandpa, attending his grandchildren’s activities whenever possible, encouraging them to follow Jesus, and faithfully praying for them. He and Adell also enjoyed traveling and volunteering together. He spent his free time hunting, fishing, and golfing. You could also find him cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs or the Kansas Jayhawks.

With a quick wit and a warm presence, Jerry made people smile. His favorite responses - “Better than I deserve” and “Glad you got to see me” - were well known. He even inspired a drink in his honor, the "Johnson Mocha" at the local McDonald’s.

On Monday, February 24th, 2025, Jerry passed away at the Luverne Hospice Cottage at the age of 81.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Adell; his daughter, Angela (Ivan) Voss; and his grandchildren: Jeremy, Ellie (Alex) Fuhs, Andrew, and Kennan. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Molly Charling; a brother, Leo Johnson; and his son, Jed Johnson.

Memorials may be directed to Atlas, Matthew 6 Ministries, American Reformed Church in Luverne, or Sioux Falls Christian School.