Craig R. Johnson

With deep love and gentle hearts, we honor the life of Craig Richard Johnson, age 74, of Little Falls, who passed away peacefully on September 15, 2026. A funeral service will be held on Monday, September 21, 2026 at 11:00 AM at LeMieur Funeral Home in Little Falls with Rev. Brandon Johnson officiating. Burial will take place in the Minnesota State Veteran Cemetery, north of Little Falls, MN. Visitation will be held Sunday, September 20, 2026 from 4:00-7:00 PM and Monday, September 21, 2026 from 10:00-11:00 AM at the LeMieur Funeral Home in Little Falls. Caring for Craig and his family is the LeMieur Funeral Home in Little Falls. Craig was a man of profound kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion to his family and his country. Craig’s journey began on August 18, 1952, born in Little Falls to his late parents, Bert and Betty (Spear) Johnson. After graduating high school, he pursued higher education before answering the call to serve his country, being drafted into the U.S. Army in 1972. That same beautiful year, on July 1st, he wed the love of his life, Betty Ann Kimman. Together, they began a beautiful 54-year journey of marriage rooted in love and partnership. Upon returning from his military service, Craig and Betty initially made their home in South St. Paul, where Craig worked for Gold Medal Distributing. In 1979, the pull of home brought them back to the Little Falls area. Craig’s dedication to service was a defining cornerstone of his life; he retired from the military in 1996 with the distinguished rank of Master Sergeant. He later brought his strong work ethic to the GSSC Security Company, retiring in 2015. To know Craig was to know a man who could fix anything and who gave of his time generously. He was the first to offer a helping hand to friends and neighbors with any repair project they had, leaving behind a legacy of selflessness, lighthearted humor, and genuine care. Above all his achievements, Craig’s greatest joy was found within his family. He treasured every moment spent with them, and his role as a grandfather brought an absolute radiance to his life. He was a wonderful husband, an inspiring father, a doting grandfather, and a loyal friend who will be missed beyond measure. Craig’s memory lives on through his beloved wife, Betty; his children, Brandon (Jodi) Johnson of Little Falls, Vanessa (Matt) Pantzke of Randall, and Chad (Janelle) Johnson of Brainerd. He was the incredibly proud grandfather of Elizabeth (Josh) Goetz, Simon Pantzke, Ellie Pantzke, Emily Johnson, Gracie Johnson, Amber Johnson, and Eva Johnson, and was eagerly anticipating the arrival of his first precious great-grandchild. He is also survived by his siblings, Cheryl Woodward and Brad Johnson. Craig is now reunited in eternal peace with his infant son; his parents, Bert and Betty Johnson; and his grandparents, Enoch and Edith Johnson, and John and Sena Spear. His warmth and laughter will remain forever in the hearts of those who loved him.

Craig R. Johnson

August 18, 1952 - September 15, 2026