The Blaine County Journal News-Opinion - We've Got The County Covered

Elvin "Ellie" Kermit Johnson, 94, of Lemmon, SD passed away peacefully in his sleep at the Five Counties Nursing Home in Lemmon on Sunday, September 4, 2016.

A celebration of Elvin's life was held on Saturday, July 1, 2017 at 11:00am, at the American Lutheran Church in Hogeland, MT, with a graveside service to follow at the Wing Cemetery with full military honors.

Elvin was born September 14, 1921 to Knute and Helga (Stusrud) Johnson. He grew up on the family farm with his six brothers and one sister. He attended school in Hogeland and enlisted in the army on July 2, 1942. He spent most of the next few years in China and was honorably discharged on December 20, 1945. He returned home to help his parents on the farm.

He married Lois Dennison on March 20, 1963. They soon welcomed a daughter Cheryl Lynn and continued to farm and ranch until 1979 when they sold the farm and moved to Hamilton, MT. Elvin worked as a custodian at the local high school until his retirement. He and Lois moved to Billings, MT and eventually to Lemmon, SD to be closer to family.

Elvin will always be remembered for his bright blue eyes and his warm smile. He had a soft heart when it came to animals and was forever bringing home bunnies from the field when he was haying. He was happiest sitting with family and friends enjoying a cup of coffee and something sweet. His love of music continued thru the years and he could often be found sitting in his chair humming to himself. He will be greatly missed but heaven has gained another beautiful soul.

Elvin is survived by his wife Lois Johnson of Lemmon, SD, daughter Cheryl (Randy)Miller of Shadehill, SD and their children Alise (Todd)Kling, Aimee, Layne and Krista Miller and a great granddaughter Paisley Kling. Other survivors include his sister Helen Knutson, Great Falls, MT, brother in laws Charles (Marilyn) Dennison, Naperville, IL and Dick(Carla)Dennison Lewistown, MT, sister in laws Joyce Johnson Houston, TX , Sheila (Milo) Dennison Lewistown, MT as well as numerous nieces and nephews and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Kenneth, Reuben, Harry, Donald, Gordon and Norman and stepson David Kropp.

Memorials are suggested to the American Lutheran Church in Hogeland, MT and Calvary Lutheran Church in Lemmon, SD.

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