Russell D. Johnson
Russell “Russ” D. Johnson, 83 of Plymouth passed away February 13, 2020, in his home in Sarasota, Florida, surrounded by family.
There has been a change of service date; the date is yet to be determined.
He was born in Pontiac, MI, on November 12, 1936, to Lymond and Marie (Schintgen) Johnson.
Russ served two years in the U.S. Army, then developed his career by working on commercial masonry projects. He was passionate about working as a bricklayer and stone mason. Russ was a self-employed contractor for over 50 years and specialized in building artistic stone fireplaces. He was a masterful craftsman who took pride in perfecting his work. The scrape of a trowel against the brick and mortar and the clink of the chisel while he sculpted stone will always be fond reminders of him.
He was a devoted and loving family man who enriched so many lives with his charismatic presence and sense of humor. Russ cherished his children and nine grandchildren, who called him “Papa”, and he supported them in their sports, music, camps, school activities and other endeavors. Other special memories include family time at the cabin on Lake Alexander and winter breaks in Sarasota. He had a sense of adventure and loved tennis, fishing, family dinners and bargain hunting.
The last few years of his life were compromised by a rare lung condition. He faced his mortality with bravery, dignity and a healing spirit.
Russ is survived by his wife of 56 years, Bonnie; five children, Brian (Jenny), Amy (Paul), Melissa (Michael), Lori, (Ray), Eric (Michele); nine grandchildren, Sam, Taylor, Joe, Ella, Ike, Eva, Jordy, Jack, Leo; six siblings, Bob (Eloise) Johnson, Jeanne (Don) Peterson, Ron (Bev) Johnson, Chuck (Paula) Johnson, Kevin (Dian) Johnson, Mary Kay (Mike) Ming.
He was preceded in death by parents; three brothers, Doug, Terry and Bill and two sisters, Joan and Peg.
Memorials for “access to food” programs can be made to Hope in a BackPack, 8109 Camminare Dr., Sarasota, Fl., 34238, or Interfaith Outreach, 1605 County Rd. 101 N., Plymouth, MN 55447.
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