Michael K. "Mike" Johnson

Michael Johnson, age 64 of Hastings, died peacefully at home on Tuesday morning, July 30, 2019, following an extended illness. Michael Kent, the son of Kent G. and Jean E. (Espensen) Johnson, was born on May 16, 1955, in Heron Lake, Minnesota. Following his graduation from Hastings High School with the class of 1973, Mike enlisted in the United States Air Force served in the Vietnam War for four years before receiving an honorable discharge. Upon returning, Mike began his life-long career at 3M Chemolite in Cottage Grove until his health began to fail. Outside of work, Mike thoroughly enjoyed hunting and fishing, and even had the opportunity to fish one last time a few days prior to his passing. Mike also had a special bond with his father Kent, one in which their love and respect for each other was never broken. In 1983, Mike was united in marriage to Cheryl Holman, and was blessed to adopt her two daughters, Heather and Cindy. Mike was a longtime member of the Heron Lake Duck Hunting Club, as well as an active karate participant. He was preceded in death by his grandparents; former wife, Cheryl; and most recently by his father, Kent on April 13, 2019. Mike is survived by his daughters, Heather (Mike) Darst and Cindy (Steve) Kieffer; grandchildren, Kara Darst, Michael Kieffer, Kylie Kieffer, Matthew Darst, and Adalyn Darst; mother, Jean E. Johnson; sisters, Diane (Fred) Berry and Lynn (Jim) Raway; best friends, Scott and Mark; and by many other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held 3:00 p.m. Saturday, August 3, 2019, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel in Hastings, with Gordon Gathright officiating. Interment with Military Honors provided by VFW Lyle Russell Post 1210, will follow at Lakeside Cemetery in Hastings Family and friends are cordially invited to a visitation from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., and also to a reception following the interment, all at the funeral home on Saturday. Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.