In Memory Of Leland Lamar Johnson

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Leland's Obituary

Johnson, Leland L. "Lee" Born September 23, 1917, in Wadena, MN & died near his beloved Bay Lake on June 23, 2006. He was preceded in death by his wife Jean, his parents, Chester & Lillian; and brothers, Russell & Cassell. Johnson graduated from Wadena High School in 1935 and then attended the U of MN where he was a member of the varsity football squad & Phi Delta Theta fraternity; he graduated in 1940 with a B.S. degree. He entered the U.S. Navy as an aviation cadet, earning his wings in 1941. He was appointed chief flight instructor at the naval air station in Pensacola, FL and in 1943 assumed duties as Squadron Commander on the USS Independence as well as several other carriers in the Pacific. He was awarded 3 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 2 air medals & numerous citations. After release from active duty in 1945, he was instrumental in organizing the "Week-end Warriors" program at the Naval Air Station at World Chamberlain field & was commanding officer of several squadrons there. He retired with the rank of Captain, USNR, in 1977. His business career culminated at Brown Steel Tank Company, where he served for 26 years, the last 11 as president. He retired in 1978. From his early years in Wadena onward, he was active in numerous school, business & community organizations. He was president of the "M" club, the Upper Midwest Oilmen's Club & the Bay Lake Improvement Assoc. He was an avid outdoorsman & enjoyed to the fullest hunting, fishing, golf, and snowmobiling. He is survived by his children, Bruce (Sandy) and Jane (Phillip) Rollins; grandchildren, Tara & Andrew Johnson, Carrie (Craig) Davis & great granddaughter, Erin. Memorials may be made in honor of Lee & Jean Johnson to the Bay Lake Environmental Protection Fund, Box 461, Deerwood, MN 56444. Memorial Service Friday, July 7, 11 AM with visitation 1 hour prior. A brief reception will follow, all at: Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel West 50th Street at Hwy 100 952-920-3996This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.

Show Less ›

Show Your Sympathy

©2017 Legacy.com. All rights reserved.

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/name/leland-johnson-obituary?pid=1000000018223350&

Leland Johnson (1917)