Arno Johnson

Arno Flash Johnson, passed away on Monday, May 23rd, 2011 at the Good Samaritan Society Home in Redwood Falls, MN. Arno Percy Flash Johnson was born on August 30th, 1921 to Isaac Jesse (Honl) Johnson, of Sleepy Eye, MN. Arno was a lifetime resident of Sleepy Eye, M.N. He graduated from Sleepy Eye Public High School in 1942. During his school years, Arno was known for his athleticism on the football field, particularly his speed. He acquired a nick name because of it and has been mainly known as Flash to all who knew him ever since. He was a member of the Faith United Methodist Church. Arno married Gladys Jane (Stimpert), his high school sweetheart, on September 28th, 1942. They shared a lifetime of love for nearly 69 years. Shortly after they married, Arno served his country proudly as a Machinist Mate Third Class in the US Navy aboard the USS Oak Hill during WWII and was honorable discharged in 1945 after serving 4 years. Flash worked as a Carpenter for Stimpert Homes for more than 40 years. He spent his retirement bartending at the Orchid Inn for many years. Arno spent countless hours on the golf course playing and also teaching his grandkids the game. He was entertained greatly watching John Wayne Westerns and putting picture puzzles together. He was part of a bowling league for many years. He kept spare change available for shaking dice in the mornings with his cronies at Dan's Bakery. He adored spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He loved and fancied no one more than his wife. Arno is lovingly survived by his wife, Gladys; sons, Van Johnson of Northrop and Gary (Joanne) Johnson of Sleepy Eye. Grandchildren; Erin (Chad) Bertrand of Sleepy Eye and Michael (Amanda) Johnson of Andover. He had 5 great grandchildren; Chelsey Justin Bertrand and Chelsey, Ethan and Grant Johnson; sister Joyce Gilbertson of Wisconsin. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother Stubby, sister Gladys and great granddaughter Amanda Bertrand.