Obituary of Willis J. Johnson

Willis (Willy) J. Johnson, 82, of Cambridge, MN left those who loved him to greet those that have gone before him on Friday, April 4, 2014 at his daughter's home in Isanti MN. John Gustaf Willis was born to Walfred and Henrietta (Hultgren) Johnson on April 17, 1931 in Fish Lake Township. He was baptized and confirmed at the Fish Lake Lutheran Church. He attended country school in Stark. On July 30, 1956 he was united in marriage to Loaine Rydeen in Cambridge. They made their home in Cambridge and raised three daughters. Willis worked at the Cambridge Woolen Mills until it closed, and then went to work at Motek Engineering. In 1971 he went to work at the Cambridge High School, where he was known as "Jingles". Willis retired from the High School in 1996 after 24 years of service. He was proud to be a member of AFL-CIO Local 284. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic and his outgoing personality. Willis was employed part time at a number of other jobs throughout Cambridge including the Cambridge State Bank and Anderson Drug. Those that would come to know him were quickly introduced to the "twinkle in his eye." His sisters will remember him for his unique way of getting them to smile for pictures. Polka music, watching All Star Wrestling and winning at Bingo with his "special winning cards" brought him much joy. He took great pride living in the Cambridge community seldom wanting to venture too far away. He enjoyed spending time at the local eating establishments including Peoples Cafe and Herman's Bakery and visits to his favorite barber Harold. He could always make people smile with a joke or two, reminding others not to take life too seriously. Willis was preceded in death by his parents Walfred and Henrietta (Hultgren) Johnson, step-mother Gladys (Skogen) Johnson, brother Wallace Johnson, sister-in-law Martha Johnson, brother-in-law Ruben Lood and son-in-law Michael Oestreich. He is survived by his daughters Janice Oestreich of Mora, Cindy (Steve) Yund of Isanti, Heidi (David) Miller of Cambridge, and Mother to his children Loaine Johnson of Cambridge. Grandchildren: Jason Oestreich and his children Zak and Teanna, Nathan Oestreich and his children Nathan Jr., Justin and Evelyn, Nick Yund, Danielle (Mark) Bell and their children: Grace, Lily and Willow. Brianna Yund, Cayla Yund, Tricia Miller, Colten Weekley and Addie Miller. Sisters: Harriet Lood of Cambridge, Sandy Edblad of Cambridge and Margaret Wicklund of New Hope. Special friend Barb Zemke and family, as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.