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 September 22, 1951. They lived in Truman, St. James, and then resided in North Mankato since 1963. Together they raised 3 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 brother, Arlen Johnson; sisters, Barbara Hegg and Alice Olson; sister-in-law, Linda Johnson; 3 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 2 great-great-grandchildren.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Arne and Ragnal Johnson; sister, Joyce (husband, Gene) Sheppard; brother, Ron Johnson; brothers-in-law, Chuck Olson and Denny Hegg; sister-in-law, Marlene Johnson; brother, Earl 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 on Thursday, June 12 at 2 p.m.

Memorials preferred to Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Mankato MN.

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