John T. Johnson

John T. Johnson, age 89, of Milaca, formerly of Minneapolis and Eden Prairie, passed away Friday, June 26, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family. 

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 11 AM Milaca Evangelical Free Church. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Milaca Free Church Mission Programs.

John T. Johnson was born on October 21, 1936, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1954. After earning his private pilot's license in 1956, he worked in the home construction industry until entering the U.S. Army in 1959. During his military service, he trained in helicopter maintenance and spent his final two years stationed in Heidelberg, Germany, serving as a crew chief on a Sikorsky H-34 helicopter.

Following his honorable discharge, John returned to Minneapolis and continued his aviation training through the GI Bill. He earned several advanced certifications, including Flight Instructor ratings for both airplanes and helicopters, as well as his Airline Transport Pilot certification. He later achieved the distinction of Master Pilot, logging more than 50 years of safe flying.

In 1964, John began his distinguished career with the Minneapolis Police Department. He served at Police Headquarters and the Model City Precinct before spending more than 21 years as a sergeant in the Traffic Unit. After more than 34 years of dedicated service, he retired from the department in 2000.

On March 6, 1971, John married the love of his life, Kathleen J. "Kathy" Wennberg. Together they shared 55 wonderful years of marriage, building a life centered on Christian faith, family, and adventure. They made their home in Eden Prairie for nearly 30 years before settling in Milaca. They were blessed with two children: daughter Jennifer Joy in 1975 and son Brian Erik in 1977. Throughout the years, John also raised many beloved German Shorthaired Pointers, faithful companions who joined him on countless hunting adventures. John was an active member of his church, where his faith shaped the way he lived, served, and cared for others.

Flying remained one of John's greatest passions throughout his life. For 15 years he flew with Elliott Aviation, transporting many notable public figures. One of the highlights of his aviation career was flying the King and Queen of Norway. He was also deeply involved with the Civil Air Patrol, serving as Wing Commander and volunteering at Cadet Flight Encampments for 25 years.

After retiring from the Minneapolis Police Department, John accepted what he often considered his dream job—a full-time pilot position with Erickson Petroleum. Flying a corporate jet took him throughout Alaska, Canada, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. He retired from corporate aviation in 2008 but continued sharing his love of flying by instructing aspiring pilots until 2023.

John and Kathy especially treasured time spent with their family at their home in Milaca. Their large yard became a favorite gathering place where grandchildren Cameron, Atticus, LJ, and Katelyn created countless memories, including the seasonal blooming of the "Marshmallow Tree." Deer, turkeys, and grouse were frequent visitors, adding to the peaceful surroundings John loved so much.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Kathy; his daughter, Jennifer (Louis Jr.) Kalis; his son, Brian (Aimee) Johnson; his cherished grandchildren, Cameron, Atticus, Louis III (LJ), and Katelyn; his faithful canine companion, Jet; his three remaining siblings, Bill, Bonnie, and Helen; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Whether serving his country, protecting his community, soaring through the skies, or spending time with those he loved most, John lived a life defined by faith, service, integrity, and devotion to family. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.