Robert “Bob” John Johnson, 92, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026.

Bob was born on February 22, 1934, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester under remarkable circumstances. A premature twin weighing just 2 pounds 10 ounces at birth, he spent his first 30 days in an incubator. His twin brother, Richard, passed away shortly after birth.

Bob grew up in Pleasant Grove, graduated from Stewartville High School in 1952, and attended Rochester Junior College for 1 year.

In April 1953, Bob enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served as a weather observer. He was stationed at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, Chanute Air Force Base in Illinois, Clovis Air Force Base in New Mexico, along the 38th parallel in Korea, and Ent Air Force Base in Colorado. He was honorably discharged in May 1956 following the death of his father and later continued his service in the Air Force Reserve.

One of the most memorable turns in Bob’s life began with a picnic at his Uncle Gordon’s. It was there he met Sandy, a nursing student at the Kahler/St. Mary’s School of Nursing. Their story grew from that chance meeting, and they were married on May 31, 1958. Over the years, their life together held both joys and challenges, but also many shared adventures—especially their love of travel. They spent time in Colorado, Arizona, Hawaii, and often returned to Japan, a place they both deeply appreciated for its culture, people, and food. Sandy preceded him in death in 2020.

Bob began his career at IBM in Rochester in June 1957, working in manufacturing, then production control, and finally in procurement until his retirement in April 1990. He looked back on his years at IBM with fond memories.

He had a lifelong fascination with aviation. On sunny days, Bob could often be found at the Rochester Airport, enjoying lunch in the Chanticleer Room while watching planes come and go. It was there, during one of his visits, that he struck up a conversation with a pilot who had just landed a Beech King Air. After a friendly exchange and handshake, the man introduced himself as Tom Watson Jr., then President of IBM—a story Bob carried with quiet amusement for the rest of his life.

Later in life, Bob found peace and belonging in the Catholic faith and became a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church. He was a familiar face at Saturday evening Mass, appreciating the routine, reflection, and fellowship it provided.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sandy; his daughter, Michelle Anne Johnson Krajewski; his father, Warner Johnson; his mother, Edith Johnson; his sister, Shirley Candell; and his twin brother, Richard.

He is survived by his daughter, Andrea Swanson (John); his grandchildren, Matthew (Kaylee) Swanson and their daughter, Eden; Aaron (Anna) Swanson; and Katelyn Swanson (Tyrese Lindsay). He is also survived by his sisters, Carol Sabatke and Marilyn (John) Whelan; his brother, Howard (Diane) Johnson; and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church on July 22 at 11:00 a.m., with visitation one hour prior to the service. A luncheon will follow at the church.

The family extends their sincere gratitude to Dr. Luke Hafdahl, as well as the nurses and caregivers of Mayo Clinic Hospice—especially Kim, Amy, and MG—for their compassionate care and support.

Memorials may be directed to Mayo Clinic Hospice or Holy Spirit Catholic Church.

While his family will miss him dearly, they take comfort in knowing that Bob is now at peace and in the presence of his Savior.

Bob will be remembered for his friendliness, his interest in the world around him, and his ability to strike up a conversation wherever he went. He leaves behind many memories, stories, and friendships that will continue to be cherished by those who knew him.