Darell Leo Johnson

Darell Leo Johnson, age 75, of Apple Valley, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2026, surrounded by love and his children.

Darell was born on September 14, 1951, in Rochester, Minnesota, to Leo and Marian (Gilles) Johnson, alongside his twin brother, Duane. He grew up in Austin, attended Queen of Angels Elementary School, and graduated from Pacelli High School in 1970. He continued his education at Austin Vocational-Technical School, where he studied carpentry. Darell married Joyce Schroeder in 1973; they later divorced in 1987. He spent his life building a family, businesses, friendships, and memories that will be treasured by all who knew him.

A highly skilled finish carpenter, Darell took great pride in his craftsmanship and established his own business, Johnson Finish Carpentry. He also owned and operated Kitchen Design Studio with his former wife and business partner, Joyce Johnson. He found special joy in passing his knowledge and carpentry skills on to his sons, sharing the patience, precision, and dedication that made him such a gifted craftsman.

Darell was known for his kind heart, cheerful spirit, generosity, storytelling, and the many friendships he made throughout his life. He especially enjoyed the Minnesota Twins, fishing and hunting trips with his kids, cousins, and friends, bowling, and his favorite Western, Gunsmoke. He found great peace in nature and could spend hours watching birds of all kinds take flight, squirrels busily forage, and deer quietly wander through the woods. Most of all, he treasured spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Darell is survived by his children, Wende Johnson-Hill; Dave (Colleen) Johnson and their children, Kaitlyn, Megan, and Nick; Jeane Johnson and her children, Brayden, Riley, and Jackson; John (Whitney) Johnson and their children, Ruby, Rosie, Dominick, and Maverick; and Rebecca Johnson (Lee Gilmore) and their children, Alyssa and Blake. He is also survived by his siblings, Lyn Johnson-McCoy; his twin brother, Duane (Kathryn) Johnson; Kathleen Johnson; Mary Ritenour; and Dan (Emma) Johnson; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Marian (Gilles) Johnson; his brother, Larry Johnson; his grandson, Mac Hill; his son-in-law, David Hill; his brothers-in-law, Rick Ritenour and Dave McCoy; his many beloved hunting dogs, including Lucky; and, of course, the trophy fish mounted on his wall.

Those who knew Darell will remember him for his kind heart, remarkable talents, friendships, and the many memories he created. His memory will continue to live in the hearts of all who loved him.

A visitation will be held on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. at Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Austin, Minnesota. Following Mass, there will be a procession to Calvary Cemetery in Austin. A reception will follow. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.