Lavern G. ‘Vern’ Johnson

Lavern G. “Vern” Johnson, age 90, of Annandale, died Saturday, Dec. 24, at English Rose Suites in Edina. 

Vern was born Oct. 12, 1932, in Eagle Bend, Minnesota, to George and Florence (Carlson) Johnson. He grew up in Eagle Bend with his two brothers, Bob and Willy. 

Vern graduated in 1950 from Eagle Bend High School and in 1954 from Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter. One week later, he married his high school sweetheart, Phyllis L. Broberg. He then began his 42-year career as a portfolio manager with IDS/American Express and served two years in the U.S. Army. 

After his retirement, Vern and Phyllis moved from Bloomington to their home on Cedar Lake in Annandale, enjoying time together and hosting many family members and friends. Vern loved spending time outdoors hunting, fishing, caring for the lawn and beach, and cutting wood. 

Vern was a devoted Christian who, along with Phyllis, was very involved in church activities such as choir, teaching, and church council. He joined Gideons International in the 1960s and was very active in local and statewide offices. Vern also served for many years on the Elim Care Board and the Bloomington School Board. 

Vern is survived by his wife of 68 years, Phyllis; daughter, Deb (Bob) Rosenberg of Eden Prairie; son, Ryan (Grace) Johnson of Eagan; grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and brother, Willy Johnson of Aberdeen, SD. Vern was preceded in death by his parents, George and Florence; older brother, Bob Johnson; and four infant children. 

The family would like to thank English Rose Suites and Grace Hospice for their loving care and support. Memorials are preferred to Heartland Evangelical Free Church, Gideons International, or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Memorial services were held on Dec. 30, 2022, at Heartland Evangelical Free Church in Annandale. 

Dingmann Funeral Care handled arrangements.