Duane Johnson

Duane "Dewey" Johnson died on July 30, 2024.

Dewey was born on June 6, 1930 in Red Wing, MN. He graduated from Red Wing High School and Hamline University. He married his high school sweetheart and next-door neighbor, Kathryn (Kak) Swanson on June 14, 1952. They enjoyed over 60 years of a wonderful life together.

Several months after their marriage, Dewey entered the U.S. Army. He served in combat with the 17th Infantry Regiment of the 7th Infantry Division during the Korean conflict.

During his working career he was fortunate to work for the First National Bank of Minneapolis, Mayo Clinic, and IBM. After a successful career at IBM, he retired in 1986.

Dewey was a member of Minneapolis Masonic Lodge #19, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the IBM Alumni Club.

Kak and Dewey enjoyed many hours together at the Ronald McDonald House, Rochester Amateur Sports Commission, and the Olmsted Country Guardian Ad Litem Program.

He moved to a senior living complex on the shore of Lake Superior in Duluth in 2014.

Dewey is survived by his son Bradford (Toni) of Rochester; his daughter Deborah of Duluth; 7 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and special Duluth friend Pearl Victor.

He was preceded in death by his wife Kak; son Douglas; and parents, Ann and Ray.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home (5421 Royal Place NW) in Rochester. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Ronald McDonald House or donor's choice.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Johnson family; To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.