Kirk "Erwin" Johnson

Kirk Johnson, “Erwin”, 62, Two Harbors, died Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at Lake View Hospital, surrounded by family and friends, after a brief illness. He was brave, determined and hopeful. He never gave up, but his body did.

Kirk was born December 12, 1956, the youngest of five to Shirley “Tootsie” (Kirkhus) and Kenneth “Bogo” Johnson. A lifelong resident of Two Harbors, he was baptized and confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, graduated from THHS in 1975, and was employed as a welder at Two Harbors Machine Shop/Serco Loaders for over 40 years.

Erwin was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose and Sons of the American Legion. He loved golf, curling, newspaper puzzles, Jeopardy, cooking, music, singing and dancing, as well as time at the deer shack.

Erwin was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth “Bogo” Johnson; his mother, Shirley “Tootsie” Beck; a brother Michael “Bogo” Johnson; and uncles, Milton (Coral) Johnson and Ronald Kirkhus.

He is survived by his sisters, Gaynelle Johnson and Shelley Johnson of Duluth, and Denise “Deedi” Talbott of Two Harbors; sister-in-law Patty Johnson of Blaine; nieces and nephew, Ron Davidson, Shawna Davidson, Monique Talbott, Erin (Eric) Daugherty, Tracy (Christopher) Yard; and his “special daughter”, Scotti Berg or as he called her “the kid”. Kirk was proud to be “great” as great uncle to Hogan Davidson, Ailie Davidson, Brendan Daugherty, Rowan Daugherty and Memphis Yard. He is also survived by many cousins.

The family is indebted to Ted Dallos for his unwavering friendship and care of Erwin during this difficult time. They are grateful to Jay Osbakken for his friendship and rides to medical appointments, and to others who called and visited. Lastly, they thank the many compassionate and caring medical providers: U of M Medical Center in Minneapolis, especially Mary Yang RN, Essentia/St. Mary’s Hospital in Duluth, and Lake View Hospital in Two Harbors.

In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to the donor’s choice.

A celebration of life is planned for Thursday May 16, 2019 at the Moose Lodge #1463, 709 1st Ave in Two Harbors. Visitation at 4 PM followed by a service at 5 PM. At a later date he will buried next to his mother at Lakeview Cemetery.