Roland Johnson

Dates

September 20, 1946 - December 27, 2022

Obituary

Roland Johnson, 76, of Spring Grove, MN, died Tuesday, December 27, 2022, at Tweeten Care Center in Spring Grove. Graveside services will be 11:00 AM Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis, SD. Arrangements by Bittner Funeral Chapel.

Roland Wayne Johnson was born on September 20, 1946, in Parkston, SD, to John and Lorraine (Freidel) Johnson. Roland grew up in the Ethan and Mitchell, SD area and graduated from Mitchell High School. He joined the US Navy in July of 1965 and was honorably discharged in July of 1969. He served on the USS Little Rock.

Roland was a loving father to his children, Cynthia and David. In 1973 Roland suffered a head injury in a snowmobile accident and was paralyzed on one side of his body which completely changed the course of his life. Despite all the hardships he encountered in his life, his faith was strong. He was kind, generous, determined, and optimistic. He loved to spend time with his family, enjoyed watching Westerns, growing tomatoes, and feeding the birds at his feeders.

Roland is survived by his mother; children, Cynthia and David; sisters, Julie Stranger, Mari Jo (Courtney) Clark, Lisa (John) Gulbranson, and Amy (Alan) Frydenlund; brother, Laurice (Mona) Johnson; grandchildren, Justin and Hope; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Roland was preceded in death by his father; grandson, Eric; brother, Joseph; niece, Nicole; and brother-in-law, Brad Boese.

Service

Date
Tuesday, June 6, 2023

Time
11:00 AM

Location
Black Hills National Cemetery
20901 Pleasant Valley Drive
Sturgis, SD 57785

Cemetery

Black Hills National Cemetery
Sturgis, SD

Posted by Barbara (Bruske) Mecham on March 18, 2023

I am sorry to hear of the passing of cousin Roland. We are second cousins. His grandmother was my father Mike's sister Mary (Bruske) Freidel. I have not seen Rollie for many years as I live in CA, but I remember him from our youth as being a very kind, fun loving, & considerate person.with a warm friendly smile. He was always there for his parents, helping out & being a wonderful big brother. I have been inspired by Rollie's courage & positive attitude over the years as he faced so many challenges. I believe we have angels in our lives like Rollie who teach us to persevere in times of trial & to be thankful for the blessings we have. Rollie was a true blessing to his family & all those he touched. May you Rest in Eternal Peace Rollie.
Our thoughts & prayers are with all the family.
With Love & Deepest Sympathy,
Cousin Barb & husband, Bill

Posted by Tammy Morgan on December 30, 2022

I’m so sorry to hear this. I’ve thought of him and all of you often and wondered how he was doing. Sending prayers for peace and comfort in your many memories of Rollie.

Posted by Gary and Mary Stadlman on December 29, 2022

We send our sincere sympathy to Rollie’s family. We have lost track of him through the years. Sending prayers and hugs . Rest In Peace Roland

Posted by Kenneth Norwick on December 28, 2022

I’ll never forget my cousin and friend Rollie. I don’t know that he ever knew how much he meant to me. His stories, he loved to tell them, I still remember vividly! His generosity was what we should all aspire to have and Rollie’s positivity is going to be a reminder to me forever forward how to live life. Rollie never gave up hope, never blamed anyone and never said a bad word against anyone. Rollie had a difficult life, full of setbacks, but do you know how many times Rollie ever said that or complained? Never. He told me in August when I got to visit with him after many years apart, that he still hoped with physical therapy he would one day walk. While Rollie left us on this imperfect Earth, he will always be in the hearts and minds of everyone he touched in his time on Earth. I will always cherish my cousin and try to live my life as positive and good as he always did. Love you Rollie.