Elert Marlin Johnson

At sunrise on August 17, 2025, Elert Johnson passed away peacefully at home. Born in May 1932, Elert lived a life full of travel, love, friends and family.

Elert proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War in Okinawa as a Morse code interceptor. During the very beginning of the computer age, he helped found several computer companies, installing systems at hydroelectric dams and hospitals around the country. He was an avid adopter of new technology and futuristic ideas. Ever the entrepreneur, he supported his wife building her business, which continued to flourish under the leadership of their children and, more recently, a third generation.

He was a man of many passions: cars that wowed the girls, John Deere tractors, and his trees. He never missed a chance to dance with his wife. Elert had an ability to make people laugh with just the right sarcastic remark. His grandchildren called it pestering, but the delight in his eyes was worth it.

Elert was certainly an adventurous traveler. While they were young, the family traveled throughout the country in a camper. Eventually they expanded their adventures to Europe and Asia with family and friends. Their collection of souvenirs tells the tale. Elert wrote a book capturing his adventures with Chris.

He split his time between his cherished lake home in northern Minnesota and his winter escape in Fountain Hills, Arizona. While in Arizona he cherished his weekly golf days with his golfing buddies. At age 90, he did golf his age, which was always his goal. The “19th Hole” happy hour was a highlight of his week.

Elert was the devoted husband of Chris Johnson for 66 years. Their marriage was full of love, respect, and mutual admiration. More than anything he was proud of his family.

Elert is survived by his wife, three children—Beverly (Richard Napurski), Janet (Kenneth Adams), and Eric Johnson (Constance)—grandchildren Patrick, Amy, Colin, and Erin, many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He is also survived by sisters Marilyn Ellingboe and Hazel Kowalzek. He is preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Myrtis and sister Doris Weibold.

A private Celebration of Life will be held at his home on September 13th. Family and friends are invited to contact the family for details.

Though we say goodbye with heavy hearts, we remember Elert with smiles, laughter, and root beer float glasses raised in his honor. And don’t forget the whip cream!  To leave a message of condolence, please visit:  www.srtfuneral.com.  Arrangements are with Sorensen-Root-Thompson Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Aitkin.

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