Stuart A. Johnson

Stuart (Stu) Alvin Johnson, age 81, of East Grand Forks, MN passed away at Valley Senior Living on Columbia.

He was born June 21, 1944, in Drayton, ND to Alvin and Hazel (Johnson) Johnson. He grew up on a farm outside of Kennedy, MN where he graduated from high school in with the Class of 1962. One of his lifelong passions was music. He played guitar with a few local country bands in the early years and taught himself to play piano by ear. Stu also had a great love and talent for woodworking. Over the years he built many toys which were treasured by his children and grandchildren as well as many items that made their house a home. He was also very proud to be a ham radio operator and was involved in the local club for many years, passing this interest on to his son.

Stu worked for many years at Robertson Lumber Company in various management positions. He spent some time with Matthew Hall Lumber in St. Cloud helping them start up their truss plant. In 1991 he opened GF Truss, Inc where he worked as the owner/manager until he retired in 2017.

Stu married Sharon Mitz in 1968 in Drayton, ND. They moved to East Grand Forks in 1973. Together they raised two children -- Shoni and Shaun, as well as several beloved dogs. Stu loved to spend time outdoors, whether it was camping, gardening, “fixing” something, or just tinkering in the garage. Stu and Sharon enjoyed spending time at their cabin on Maple Lake, traveling, and wintering in Hawaii or Arizona.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Sharon; daughter Shoni (John) Shjerve, son Shaun Johnson; grandchildren: Ian and Kayla Shjerve, Landon, Gavyn, Gabriella, and Adilynn Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Patricia Teal and brother-in-law Bruce Teal.

A memorial service will be held at 1 pm on Friday, June 19, 2026, at Amundson Funeral Home. Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to the Alzheimer’s Association, an animal rescue, or other charity of your choice.