Gary Lee Johnson, age 76, of Rice, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2025, at the St. Cloud Hospital.

A Memorial Service celebrating Gary’s life will be held at 3:30 PM on Friday, February 28, 2025, at Love of Christ Lutheran Church, St. Cloud. Visitation will begin at 2:00 PM at church with a reception following the service. Arrangements are with Benson Funeral Home, St. Cloud.

Gary was born on March 30, 1948, in Red Wing, MN to Kenneth and Geraldine (Reamer) Johnson. He attended Macalester College on a full scholarship for football and earned a Bachelor of Economics degree. Gary was married to Nancy Barnhart on August 16, 1969, at Trinity Independent Church in Minneapolis. He spent most of his career working with the American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees as director and labor negotiator. Gary was a strong Christian. He was a gifted communicator who could connect with anyone, effortlessly bridging gaps in understanding. With a calm demeanor and deep empathy, he had a remarkable ability to deescalate any situation. Helping others see different perspectives without ever raising his voice or losing his temper. Gary loved football, woodworking, horses, pickleball, traveling with Nancy, and wintering in Arizona over the last 18 years.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Nancy of Rice; sons, Sean (Kelly) Johnson of Chisago City, MN, Brad (Cindy Wherlock) Johnson of Woodbridge, Australia; daughters, Alissa (Justin Palm) Downs of Clear Lake, MN, and Adin Johnson of Coon Rapids, MN; brother, Ricky (Barb) Johnson of Zumbrota, MN; and sister, Judy Hamm of Fridley, MN; and his especially loved grandson Revel Johnson (son of Sean and Kelly).

He was preceded in death by his parents.

While flowers are welcome, Gary was deeply affected by witnessing many close friends battle Alzheimer’s, and in his honor, donations to the Alzheimer's Association would be gratefully appreciated.