In 1956, he joined Chicago North Western Railroad, which was later bought out by Union Pacific Railroad. He was Secretary-Treasurer for Local 757 of the United Transportation Union for 25 years. He worked for the railroad as a conductor/brakeman for 36 years.

He married his high school sweetheart, Jane Taylor, on Sept. 22, 1951. They lived in Truman, St. James, and then resided in North Mankato since 1963. Together they raised three children.

He was an active member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Mankato. He served on the financial council and enjoyed many years singing in the choir.

Gerald is survived by his three children, Chris Junker (husband, Rick Junker), Wayne Johnson, and Mike Johnson (wife, Barbara Von Ohlen-Johnson); grandchildren, Sara Junker (spouse, Cara Samuelson), Marta (Junker) Krosch, Laura Junker, Jenna (Johnson) Alipaz (husband, Joel), Carissa (Johnson) Reagan (husband, Charles), and Josh Johnson; 11 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Arne and Ragnal Johnson; sister, Joyce Sheppard; brother, Ron Johnson; sister-in-law, Marlene Johnson; brother, Earl Johnson; sister-in-law, Linda Johnson; nieces, Becky Johnson and Jennifer Sheppard; great-grandson, Alan Junker; and his beloved wife, Jane.

The family will hold a ceremony at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church Chapel in Mankato to celebrate his wonderful life at 2 p.m. on Thursday, June 12. Memorials preferred to Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Mankato, Minn.

 

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