Duane Victor Johnson, 95, of Bear River, MN passed away with his loving family by his side on Tuesday, April 27, 2021 at Diamond Willow assisted Living, Mountain Iron, MN.

Duane was born on August 16, 1925 in Hibbing, the son of John and Alice (Wold) Johnson.

Duane grew up in Togo and then honorably served his country in the US Navy during WII from 1943–1946. After the service, he moved to Bear River where he has lived ever since. Duane was employed with Ulland Brothers Construction for 40 years. He was also employed for a time with Ferrellgas. He was married to Lois Flank who passed in 1975, then to Georgene Filbert who passed in 2004. He then met and married Ellen "Joy" Schuman-Gibson on June 25, 2010 in Virginia, MN. Duane was a member of the Bear River Lutheran Church. He enjoyed restoring old cars and showing them at the Timber Days in Cook. He also loved traveling and dancing.

Duane was preceded in death by his parents; his wives Lois Johnson, and Georgene Johnson; four brothers: Roy, Jack, Bob and Kenny Johnson; grandson Jesse Johnson; and great-granddaughter Angelina Pemberton.

He is survived by his wife Ellen "Joy" Johnson of Virginia; children: Kevin (Theresa) Johnson of Dothan, Alabama, and Tammy (Farley) Fox of Britt; 3 grandchildren: Richard Johnson, Renee Pemberton, and Heather Johnson; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; numerous step-children and step grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 15, 2021 at 11:00AM at Mlaker Funeral Home, Cook, MN. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. A reception will be held at the VFW following the service and burial. Military Honors will be accorded by the Cook VFW Post #1757 Honor Guard and Orr American Legion Post #480 Honor Guard. To leave an online condolence visit www.mlakerfuneralhome.com