Merle Ellsworth Johannsen

MERLE ELLSWORTH JOHANNSEN, age 94, of New Richland, died on Tuesday, May 9, 2023 at Mayo Clinic Health System in Waseca.

Merle was born on May 27, 1928, to Harry and Stella (Johnson) Johannsen. He graduated from Freeborn High School with the class of 1946. Merle was united in marriage to Betty Jean Drake on May 28, 1947. Merle and Betty began their married life together in Wells where they welcomed their two sons into their family. In 1959, they moved to New Richland where Merle began working for People’s Natural Gas which later became Northern Natural Gas and lastly Enron. In retirement Merle stayed busy helping his neighbors, family and friends with many of their plumbing and heating needs. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, his guns, and spending his summers with Betty in their motorhome in Nisswa. Together, Merle and Betty shared 76 years of marriage before Betty passed away on February 27, 2023. Merle was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in New Richland. Blessed be his memory.

Merle is survived by his son, Terry (Janel) Johannsen of Waseca; grandchildren: Greg Johannsen, Kari Lemons, Jason Johannsen, Shawn Johannsen, and Jennifer Johannsen; great grandchildren: Sarah Johannsen, Jada Johannsen, Tyrese McCain, Isaiah McCain, Makayla Johannsen, and Corey Lemons; other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his wife; parents; son, Jack and his wife, Lonnie Johannsen.

Funeral Service will be 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Richland. Interment will be in St. Olaf Cemetery. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday.