It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our brother, uncle, cousin and friend, James E. Johnson (aka Moses) on October 2, 2025 at Parmly on the Lake in Chisago City, Minnesota. Jim was laid to rest on October 9, 2025 at Athens Lutheran Cemetery with full military honors. We want to thank everyone who was able to attend that day. A celebration of life will be held in the spring of 2026.
Jim was born on October 1, 1938 in Athens Township, Isanti, Minnesota to Alden and Edith Johnson. He attended school at Athens and then Cambridge High School, graduating in 1956 at age 17.
At age 21, he was drafted into the army. In 1967 his orders with the army reserves for four years ended and he returned to Athens Township.
He worked at Donaldson’s Department Store in Minneapolis and then went to work at the University of Minnesota in the custodial department. He worked there for 27 years until his retirement in 1991.
Jim was a member of Elim Baptist Church in Isanti for over 50 years. There he served as an usher, Sunday school teacher, youth director and camp counselor at Trout Lake Camp. That is how he got names “Moses” (after he started growing his beard).
He was affiliated with the Seven County Senior Federation since the late 1970’s. He had the opportunity to sit in on legislative hearings and rallies at the State Capitol and be an advocate for seniors.
Jim was Isanti County Outstanding Senior in 2009 and again in 2019. He was a member of the Isanti County Historical Society, Task Force Board, Beyond the Yellow Ribbon-The Vietnam Veterans of America, local advisory council on mental health, member of the fair board, multiple genealogical societies, Swedish Institute of Minneapolis and University of Minnesota Alumni.
In the mid 1990’s, he was able to go to Scandinavia with his brother, Wayne, and nephew, Andrew. That was a trip he treasured and thoroughly enjoyed.
The list could go on and on about his achievements and kindness.
Jim was a great brother, uncle, cousin and friend. He was there when you needed him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Alden and Edith Johnson; siblings, Lois, Wayne, Patricia and Jacquelyn.
He is survived by sister, Vicki Dahlberg; nephews, Jeff, Wayne Jr., Daniel, Tony, Phillip, Andrew and Timothy; and nieces, Kathy, Denise, Camilla and Sarah.
Jim,
You taught me more than I will ever know. You took the time to really listen as I showed you my new toy. The ghost stories you told at camp were always the best part of camp. Midnight bowling on New Year’s Eve was so much fun. I enjoyed watching old movies Saturday night’s after the news as well as the occasional Wrestling Main Event. You were kind and helpful and always there when I needed you.
Thank you for being my uncle.
Oh so sorry to hear this, we just visited with Jim at the All School Reunion, he sat with my mom in the rv reminiscing some of the old Elim days. Our condolences to all the family.
I’m sad to read this! Jim, you were a great example of Jesus’ love and calm patience. I wish I would’ve stayed in closer touch!! God, rest you in the glory of your Savior! 🙏💖