Gerald R. Johnson age 78 of Redwood Falls passed away on his birthday Saturday, November 26, 2011 at the Redwood Area Hospital after an extended illness while surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at the Redwood Valley Funeral Home in Redwood Falls.

A Memorial services and burial will be held in the spring. Online condolences may be sent at www.stephensfuneralservice.com. Stephens Funeral Service – Redwood Valley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Gerald was born November 26, 1933 on the family farm near Fairfax to Rudolph & Lucille (Crawford) Johnson. He attended country school near Fairfax, and later Fairfax High School. He helped on the family farm before enlisting in the US Army where he served from 1954-1956. After receiving his Honorable Discharge, Gerald returned to the farm. On December 27, 1958, Gerald was united in marriage to Iola Eller in Minneapolis. Together the couple lived and farmed near Fairfax for several years before returning to the family farm where he took over farming for his dad. In 1991, Gerald and Iola moved to Redwood Falls, and Gerald retired from farming. Gerald was a member of the Fairfax VFW, and the Fairfax Methodist Church where he served as an usher. He enjoyed travelling, camping, hunting and fishing. He also enjoyed playing cards and visiting with friends and family. Gerald loved family gatherings and reunions.

Gerald is survived by his wife Iola “Cookie” of 53 years; sons: Joel (Stacy), Loren (Maureen), and Michael all of Redwood Falls; eight grandchildren and two foster grandchildren; five great grandchildren and two on the way; siblings: Mavis Twiehoff of Faribault, Joyce (Dean) Floren of Kenyon, & Curtiss (Carol) Johnson of Rochester; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Preceding him in death are his parents, brother Russell and brother in law George Twiehoff.