Harley Arden Johnson passed away peacefully at his home Sunday, Sept. 29, 2013, surrounded by loving wife and family.

Harley was born in Arco, MN on September 5th, 1926 to Andrew and Lena Johnson.  He grew up on the family farm with 3 sisters. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II where he proudly served as a Seabee in Guam.   Harley married the love of his life Emily J. Nielsen on Sept. 8th, 1949.  He was extremely proud of the 64 years they spend together.  They moved to Rochester in 1951 where he began his career as a Heavy Equipment Operator for Leon Joyce Construction Company until his retirement.  He was a proud member of the 49's Union.

He was a member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church and of the American Legion Post #92 since first coming to Rochester. Harley enjoyed camping, fishing, snowmobiling, traveling and anything that included spending time with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and family.

Harley had quite a "Bucket List" of reasons to continue his fight; the birth of his 1st great-granddaughter, Ruby Lynn on May 22nd, a wonderful reunion visit with his granddaughter and 2 great-grandsons in August, His own 87th birthday party with his family on Sept. 5th, he and Emily's 64th Wedding Anniversary on Sept. 8th and Ruby's baptism in his driveway (specifically so he could attend)on Sept. 22nd.  The only thing that he missed on his list was the birth of a great-grandson in February 2014.  He just got too tired and couldn't wait that long.

He is survived by his loving wife Emily,  2 children Gregory (Luann) Johnson and Lori (Von) Sheridan both of Rochester; grandchildren Melissa (Dan Quesnel) Gulf Breeze FL, Gina (Richard Kern) Viola MN, Emily of Rochester, A.J. (Whitney Starkey) White Bear Lake MN, Caitlyn (Nate Burdick) Rochester; great-grandchildren Zander Cunningham, Ryan Quesnel, Ruby Kern and Baby Boy Burdick (due in February); one sister Joan (Alfred) Lundberg.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, 2 sisters Geneva (Glen) Rasmussen and Majel Marcellus, parents-in-law Theodore and Pearl Nielsen, sister-in-law Darlene Thomsen.

A Celebration of Life is planned for Harley in River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home on Wednesday, Oct 2nd 2013.  Visitation will be held at 10:00 am and Service will begin at 11:00 am.  Officiated by Pastor Warren Anderson.

A private burial will be held at Oakwood Cemetery, Military Honors provided by the American Legion Post #92.

Many thanks to all the wonderful staff at Mayo Hospice for all of their special care, thoughtfulness and friendship.

Memorials are preferred to Mayo Hospice.