Joseph Junior Johnson, 84, of Forest Lake, Minnesota, loving dad, grandpa, great-grandpa and brother, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on April 25, 2024. He was preceded in death by son, Ted; former wife, Ferne; and siblings, Maxine, Shirley, Dennis and Patti.
Joe is survived by children, Tim (Jennifer Smith), Tom and Joe (Melissa); grandchildren, Elicia, Kiley, Tejae, Brett, Blake, Travis, Courtney, Hunter, Kamdyn, Tallen and Madylen; six great-grandchildren; siblings, Judy Gehrman and Bonnie (Michael) Benson; and nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Joe was very proud of his family, and he loved to share stories about them with everyone he met.
During his school years, Joe was a stellar student and exceptional athlete. After graduation, he went on to marry his high school sweetheart, Ferne. Joe carried a tremendous work ethic throughout his careers of construction and scrap iron while raising his four sons. Joe and Ferne were also widely known and loved musicians, playing country and western music as Ferne and the Blackjacks.
In his later years, Joe retired from physical labor and began a new career as a professional model and actor. He was proudly featured in 97 print ads, more than 100 commercials, music videos, Hollywood movies, billboards, magazine covers and more. Though modeling kept him busy, Joe enjoyed spending his free time singing karaoke and playing bingo where he formed many dear friendships he cherished until the end.
Most of all, Joe loved to make people smile. He was always quick to share stories, hugs, jokes and laughs. He also baked countless cookies and cakes which he delivered to friends, neighbors, relatives and even perfect strangers. Joe will long be remembered as a gentleman who always held doors for others, was careful to never swear around women or children and always treated people with respect. Joe enjoyed a life well lived and will be missed by many.
Joe's Celebration of Life will be held at the Forest Lake American Legion from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, May 11.
