A graveside service for Gene Johnson Sr., age 84, of Milan, will be held at 1:00 PM on Sunday, June 29th, at Lakeside Cemetery in Heron Lake. Military Honors will be provided by the Sievert-Peterson American Legion Post #608 of Heron Lake-Okabena. A time of refreshments and gathering will be held at the Heron Lake Community Center following the burial.

Eugene "Gene" Paul Johnson, Sr., 84, of Milan, Minnesota, passed away peacefully in his home on June 23, 2025, with his faithful dog Max by his side.

Born on June 21, 1941, in Slayton, Minnesota, Gene was the second of four siblings. Не married Linda Johnson on August 31, 1966, and together they raised three children.

Gene dedicated thirty years of his life to service in the United States Navy, including active duty in Vietnam. A gifted Navy recruiter, he impacted countless lives with his integrity and persuasive charm. After retiring from the Navy, Gene continued his legacy of service as a Veterans Service Officer and Emergency Manager for Civil Defense in Jackson County, Minnesota.

A true outdoorsman, Gene found solace and adventure in the natural world. He was an avid hunter—of coyotes, foxes, deer, geese, and ducks-and a passionate walleye fisherman who knew every ripple of the Minnesota lakes. He also had a lifelong love for repairing and selling cars, always tinkering with the engine of any vehicle on wheels.

But above all, Gene loved people. He was gregarious and magnetic, quick with a joke or a tale, and always ready to strike up a conversation with a stranger. His independence was fierce, his convictions unwavering, and his presence unforgettable.

Gene is survived by his former wife, Linda Johnson; their children, Paula (John) Wood, Gene Johnson, Jr., and Chris Johnson; four grandchildren, Joshua Wood, Lindsy Wood, Michaela Wood, and Evan Wood; and one great-grandson, Everett Wood. He also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will miss his spirited nature.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Martha Johnson; his brothers, Gary Johnson and Leon Johnson; his sister, Lynnae Weaver, and her husband, David Weaver.

Dad, we'll carry your stories in our hearts, and smile every time we hear a good joke, or see a walleye flicker beneath the water. In life, you sailed around the world seven times. Until we meet again, keep on sailing.

Blessed be the memory of Eugene Paul Johnson