Kenneth Johnson

Kenneth L. Johnson, 91, Poplar, passed away on October 29, 2025 at his home, surrounded by his family.

Ken was born August 11, 1934, to Larue and Clara (Opheim) Johnson on his grandparents’ farm in Byron Township. He attended Poplar country school through 8th grade and then high school in Motley, graduating in 1951. He enjoyed working on the grain and potato harvests for several years in the Red River valley.

On July 28, 1956, he married Hope Hulett at Poplar Community Church. Their marriage was blessed with 8 children. They eventually settled on their farm in Poplar Township, raising beef and sheep. Ken served on the Poplar Township board for 13 years and as a Cass County commissioner for 10 years. From his father-in-law, he learned how to shear sheep, a trade he continued until he was 80 years old.

A gifted and prolific storyteller, Ken delighted his children and grandchildren with stories, both from his own life and from his creative and imaginative mind. He had a quick and wonderful sense of humor and enjoyed making others laugh. Ken was also a man of deep faith and attended the Leader Mennonite Church for 40 years and later was a member of Motley Free Methodist Church for 20 years.

Ken is survived by his wife of 69 years, Hope; children KaAnn (Jesse) Drone, Jim (Sheri) Johnson, Gene (Becky) Johnson, Susie (Alex) Griffith, Janet (Tim) Michlitsch, Kate Johnson, Bill (Kathleen) Johnson, and Karen (Ethan) Seaberg; as well as 18 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren; his sister Mary Lee (Dave) Young and sisters-in-law Mary Nell Johnson and Ramona Van Wey. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Russell Johnson, and two infant sisters and an infant brother.

Funeral service for Ken will be held at 11am on Friday, November 7, 2025 at Motley Free Methodist Church, with son Pastor Jim Johnson officiating. Burial will be at Poplar Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Salvation Army, Voice of the Martyrs, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Staples.