Albert S. “Al” Johnson, 86
Albert Spencer “Al” Johnson, 86, of Austin, died at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester on Sept. 16, 2008. He was born Sept. 15, 1922 in Walker, Minn. His parents were Carl and Lillie (Isaacson) Johnson. He graduated from Hibbing High School in 1940. In 1942 he enlisted in the Air Force and became a link trainer instructor. After his military service ended, Al became employed by the Soil Conservation Department in Stillwater, where he met Virginia Jolson. They were married on Nov. 30, 1944 in St. Paul. Al owned a photography studio in Hibbing and was a member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church there. In his late 30’s Al began college at Hibbing Community College and graduated from Bemidji State College. In 1961 they moved to Austin where Al taught German in Austin Public Schools until his retirement in 1986. A devoted member of Grace Lutheran Church, he enjoyed biking, photography, woodworking, music and their summers at the lake near Hibbing.
Survivors include his wife, Virginia; daughter, Nancy (Richard) Stonehouse, Huntersville, N.C.; son, Rodney (Deborah) Johnson, Elk River; three grandchildren, Eric (Chris) Stonehouse, Amanda (Scott) Odmoth and Emily Johnson; brother, Charles (Gladys) Johnson, Hastings; sister, Faye (Ed) Miller, Milaca; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lillie and Carl, and a grandson, Jon Stonehouse.
Memorial Services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008 at Grace Lutheran Church in Austin with Pastor Jeff Forbes officiating. Friends may call one hour prior to the service at the church. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is in charge of arrangements. The family prefers memorials to Grace Lutheran Church in Austin.