Bernhard Johnson

Bernhard O. Johnson was born on June 4, 1914 in Brandon, MN the son of Ole and Barbro (Endreson) Johnson. He attended grade school through the eighth grade and then began farming with his father and brother. Bernhard married LaFern Bye in 1957 and loved her children Wayne and Edwina like they were his own. LaFern died on June 14, 1970. He farmed all of his life and took pride and loving care of his family?s homesteaded farm near Brandon for many years. He loved the color ?green?, like his John Deere tractors. He enjoyed hunting and growing strawberries. He was a lifelong member of St. Petri Lutheran Church where he held many offices through the years. Bernhard loved his family and especially his step-grandchildren. He had a special bond with his step-grandson Keith Nelson before his death. Bernhard will be missed by those who loved and knew him. Bernhard Oscar Johnson died on Easter Sunday, March 23, 2008 at Knute Nelson in Alexandria at the age of 93. He is survived by his step-children Wayne and Phyllis Bye of Lafayette, CO; Edwina and Omar Nelson of Chippewa Falls, WI; step grandchildren and great step grandchildren; cousin Laurel Johnson of Alexandria. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife LaFern Johnson; and brother Joseph Johnson. A funeral service was held on Friday, March 28, 2008 at the St. Petri Lutheran Church with the Reverend David Gran officiating. Bruce and Audrey Aga provided music. Interment will be in the St. Petri Lutheran Cemetery in the Spring. Casket Bearers were Doug Johnson, Jerry Johnson, Arlyn Johnson, Jeff Osegard, Curtis Olson, Leroy Buse, and Earl Bye. Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria.