Donald Boyd "Donnie" Johnson

Donnie, (Papa) Boyd Johnson, age 73 of New Brighton passed away peacefully on Wednesday June 5^th, 2024.  He was a dearly loved son, brother, uncle, husband, dad, grandpa and friend. He was born December 9^th,1950 in Minneapolis to Wilbert and Bernice Johnson. He was a 1968 graduate of Bloomington Lincoln High School. In 1977 he married the love of his life, Linda Colianni and accepted the responsibility of 2 small children, Jeff and Dawn. In 1979, his daughter Kimberly was born, and his family was complete.

In his words, Donnie spent his working years as a “transportation specialist.” He drove truck for Murphy's, Dayton's/Macys and Warner Brothers.  In his retirement years, he was known as the “family Uber.” He was a passionate union steward and trustee and president at Eagles Post 3718 along with being a volunteer for many community events.

Donnie held many titles in his life from bartender to grill master, however; his favorite role was being papa to Mitch, Sydney, Mason, Saylor and Easton. He loved nothing more than spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed grilling, fishing, singing with his grandkids, karaoke, and telling endless stories and jokes. Over the years he spent his time coaching softball, going on field trips, playing cards, fishing with his family, spending winters in Arizona, growing ribbon worthy apples and perfecting a chili recipe; winning first place in Arizona and Minnesota.

Donnie was everyone’s “go to” for car advice and the only person we knew that could buy and sell a car within an hour. He had the best one liners and nicknames for everyone, was larger than life and always cracked himself up. Besides being a loving and caring husband, dad and grandpa, many considered him a lifelong friend. He was always there to offer his love, support and encouragement.  He was a person you could count on and didn’t hesitate to help anyone in need.  This world would be a better place if everyone had a Donnie in their life.

Preceded in death by parents Wilbert and Bernice (Ellingson) Johnson, brothers William, Marlin, Larry, Dallas and Dennis; sisters Sandra, Barbara and Beverly; nephew Troy Lubinski, many special friends and Sophie the wonder dog.

Survived by wife, Linda; children Kim, Dawn (Chuck) and Jeff; grandkids Mitch, Sydney, Mason, Saylor and Easton; sister Marlys; brothers Butch and Allan (Jenine); many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to Emma for her kindness and support during Donnie’s time at Abbott.  Ro and Jada with Moments Hospice offered exceptional care, making a heartbreaking time a little more bearable.  We will forever be grateful for you three.

He will be forever remembered and missed terribly by everyone lucky enough to know him.  Rest in paradise Big D.  He will live forever in our hearts and with every tough decision we will think “what would Donnie do?”

Celebration of Life will be on Friday, June 21st 2024 from 4:30pm to 7:30pm at the Kraus-Hartig VFW Post #6587

8100 Pleasant View Dr. NE, Spring Lake Park, MN (763) 780-1700. 

At 6:30pm all will have an opportunity to share thoughts and/or memories.