James Johnson Sr., 78, Blooming Prairie

James J. Johnson Sr., 78 of Blooming Prairie, died Thursday, May 31, 2018 at his home.  
He was born Nov. 25, 1939 in Austin to Alvin and Grace (Filley) Johnson. James was a 1957 graduate of Austin High School and received his Associate’s Degree from Riverland Community College.  
In 1959, he married Bonnie Fosness in Dodge Center. The couple made their home in Blooming Prairie, and later divorced. James remained a lifelong Blooming Prairie resident. After farming and running a welding shop, James worked for the Minnesota Department of Transportation for over 33 years.  He enjoyed fabricating items from steel, welding, tinkering with motors, and mowing his yard.  
James’ family and friends will miss him dearly.
Survivors include his children James Jr. (Cindy) of Claremont, Jeff (Angie) of Rochester, Jackie (Al) Thiemann of Byron, Jill Johnson of Hastings; 10 grandchildren Kelcey, Kristy, Blair, Kylie, Taylor, Jaden, Justin, Anna, Evan and Maya; 8 great-grandchildren; brothers Robert (Linda) Johnson of Rochester, Douglas Johnson of Blooming Prairie, and Lyndon (Ruth) Johnson, also of Blooming Prairie; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  
James was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Sharon Lundahl, his son John, and his grandson Ross.
A memorial service was held Tuesday, June 5, 2018 at First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie with Pastor Heidi Heimgartner officiating. Interment was at the Blooming Prairie City Cemetery.  
Memorials can be directed to recipient of donor’s choice. Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.