Leland "Lee" Johnson

Leland C. (Lee) Johnson was born in a small hospital in Taylors Falls, Minnesota the son of Oscar and Ruth Johnson. He grew up on his parent’s farm just East of Center City, Minnesota located on South Center Lake. As a young boy he joined the Boy Scouts and was always proud of being a Eagle Scout. Lee loved the outdoors and learned to hunt, fish, trap as well as farming from his dad who also taught him golf at the age of seven. He played well into his 80’s.

Lee graduated from Chisago Lakes High School in 1948. It was that summer he met his wife to be Arlene Linde. A week later he enlisted in the United States Navy and served for four years. He spent his time at the submarine base in New London, Connecticut and aboard two aircraft carriers. He was Honorably Discharged in October of 1952. During his Navy years he and Arlene wrote many letters to each other and on December 26, 1953, they were married at First Lutheran Church in St. Paul.

Arlene worked at 3M in St. Paul while Lee attended the University of Minnesota graduating in 1957. It was then they moved to Alexandria where Lee started employment with Production Credit Association. By 1961 their family had grown by four boys: David, Neal, Brian and Dean.

In 1985, they moved to Fargo where Lee finished his career with Farm Credit Service and in 1992 they moved back to Alexandria.

Lee was active in the Alexandria community serving on several boards including the Chamber of Commerce, Knute Nelson, Grand Arbor, Calvary Lutheran Church, the Masonic Lodge and HRA. He was also a long-time member of the Shriners and American Legion.

In retirement, Lee spent much of his time at the cabin on Red Rock Lake or playing golf. These last years his favorite time of the week was Wednesday mornings at Calvary Men’s Bible Study. Although nothing could beat time spent with his wife and their wonderful family. He felt so blessed to have such a loving family.

Lee died on Thursday, October 16, 2025. He is survived by his four sons: David (Cathie), Neal (Julie), Brian (Jill), Dean; 10 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Arlene; parents; two sisters: Marion Foy & Arlene Kaute.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025, 10:00 – 11:00 AM at Calvary Lutheran Church with a Memorial Service at 11:00 AM. Burial will be at Kinkead Cemetery.