Stanley J. Johnson, 80

Blue Earth – Stanley Joseph Johnson, age 80, of Blue Earth, died Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024, following a battle with cancer.

Described by his sister as a giant of a man, Stan was born Jan. 19, 1944 in Mankato to Elsie (Cowger) Johnson and Joseph Johnson. The family moved to Vernon Center when Stan was five, and his natural curiosity and intelligence were evident at an early age, inventing, experimenting, and making mischief.

Stan attended Vernon Center Elementary and Welcome Memorial High School, graduating in 1962. He enlisted in the US Navy that fall, where he served his country for four years, largely in Karamürsel, Turkey, and later in California.

Navy educated in electronic engineering, Stan’s talent was sought out by Control Data of Bloomington where he worked for many years. In later years, he returned to Blue Earth, establishing not only an automotive repair business, but also a ministry of caregiving, using his talents and skills to help many people.

Stan’s many hobbies and talents include riding his Harley, automotive design, metal fabrication and woodworking, to name just a few. Given time, Stan could create, repair, build and restore virtually anything.

His life’s greatest love was his Lord Jesus whom he honored throughout his lifetime, teaching Sunday School, catechism, sharing his testimony, and living a life of love.

Stan is survived by his sister, Lois (Earl) Busse; daughter, Roni Jo (Terry) Hamann; and many nieces and nephews.

Stan was preceded in death and met in heaven by his mom and dad; his sister, Esther (Johnson) Ziegler and her husband, Reverend Robert Ziegler; his wife, Pamela Johnson, his wife and best friend, Susan Johnson, and four beloved dogs.

A celebration of Stan’s life will be Monday, Jan. 6, at Patton Funeral Home in Blue Earth. A visitation will be held from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service. Interment will be at the Vernon Center Cemetery, where Stan and Susan await the Lord’s return together.