Willard Dean Johnson

Willard Dean Johnson, age 70, passed away on Friday, August 29, 2025, at the Villa St. Vincent after many years of health struggles, surrounded by his wife and daughters. He was born July 31, 1955, in Fertile, Minnesota to loving parents Harry and Hilda (Halvorson) Johnson.

Willard graduated from Fertile-Beltrami High School in 1973. Following graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Germany for two-and-a-half years, before coming home in 1976. He was the proud recipient of the National Defense Service Medal and earned the designation of Sharpshooter with an M16. His military service was a testament to his dedication, a quality that resonated throughout his life.

On June 11th, 1977, Willard married his high school sweetheart, Norma Ystenes, at Faaberg Lutheran Church in Rindal, Minnesota. They settled in Crookston, where they raised their two daughters in the community they called home for many years.

After his military service, he held various jobs before deciding to continue his educational pursuits at Hibbing AVTI from 1982-1984, where he earned his associate’s degree in law enforcement, a field he would serve as an officer for many years in both Fosston and Crookston Police Departments. Willard began his career in law enforcement in 1984, dedicating himself to the safety and well-being of his community. After retiring from his career as a police officer, he continued to contribute to his community by working with Transystems until fully retiring in 2018.

In addition to his career and military service, Willard was involved in his community. He was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and was a Life Member of the VFW and the American Legion in Fisher, MN.

In his leisure time, Willard enjoyed listening to music, tending his yard, and reminisced fondly about his motorcycle riding adventures in his younger days. More importantly, he treasured the moments spent with family and friends, building memories that will live on forever in their hearts.

Willard was proud of his daughters and their accomplishments and supported them in their activities growing up. Nothing was too good for his girls!

Willard adored his grandchildren and looked forward to seeing them. He was especially close to his oldest grandson, Kane, who loved spending time with grandpa and helping him with projects inside and outside in the yard. He also enjoyed watching Kane’s T-ball games and school programs.

Willard is lovingly survived by his wife, Norma (Ystenes) Johnson of Crookston, MN; daughters, Amber (Mat) Henderson of Crookston, MN and Alicia (Dani) Johnson of Grand Forks, ND; grandchildren, Kane, Kolbie, Theo, and Mira; siblings, Floyd (Linda) Johnson of Fertile, MN, Maynard (Sheryl) Johnson of Mentor, MN, Clayton (JoAnn) Johnson of Nielsville, MN; brother-in-law, William Rasmussen of Moreno Valley, CA; treasured furry friends, Sadie and Chester, who brought him comfort in time of need; and other beloved family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Hilda Johnson; grandparents; sister, Pearl Rasmussen; niece, Tammy Green; and nephew, Ryan Johnson.

Willard will be remembered as a committed public servant, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and a good friend. His spirit and dedication to his family, community, and country will continue to inspire all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

The family would like to thank Altru Health System, Riverview Health, Villa St. Vincent, and HIA Hospice for the wonderful care Willard received.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Stenshoel-Houske Funeral Home. Visitation with the family will be held one-hour prior. The service will be livestreamed, a link to which can be found at www.stenshoelhouske.com/obituaries/willard-johnson.