Odean Virgel Johnson

ODEAN VIRGEL JOHNSON, age 82, of Waseca, passed away on Monday, September 7, 2026, at Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato, surrounded by his family.

Odean was born on October 15, 1943, in Waseca, Minnesota, the son of Virgel Richard and Orella Lucille (Severson) Johnson. He attended New Richland Country School and graduated from New Richland High School, where he met his high school sweetheart, Andrea Langlie. The couple was married on December 20, 1963, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and together built a life centered on faith, family, and farming.

Following in the footsteps of his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Odean became the fourth generation to farm the Johnson family land northeast of New Richland. He was proud to be recognized as the first American Farmer Degree recipient from New Richland FFA in 1964. In addition to farming, Odean worked as a supervisor with USDA - NASDA, serving farmers throughout southern Minnesota for more than 39 years.

Odean loved what he did and found great satisfaction in his work. He especially enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, attending their activities and celebrating their accomplishments. A lifelong supporter of agriculture, he enjoyed county fairs, farming, horses, and collecting tractors. At home, his collection of Minnesota Vikings memorabilia reflected his dedication as a loyal fan who followed the team through every season.

Faith played an important role throughout Odean's life. He was a lifelong member of Vista Lutheran Church, later Christ the King Lutheran and Grace Lutheran Church, and remained active in the congregation through the years. His priorities were simple and unwavering: faith, family, and farming.

He is survived by his wife, Andrea Johnson of Waseca; children, Roxanne Johnson, Keith (Kim) Johnson of New Richland, Rochelle (Chris) Compart of Nicollet, Raeleen Johnson of Waseca, and Kyle (Amanda) Johnson of New Richland; grandchildren, Kelsby Johnson, Kaleb Johnson, Kylee Johnson, Sara Compart, Dustin (Natalie) Compart, Taylor Bolinger (Amber Meyer), Riley Johnson, Arin Boese, Jaiden Johnson, Kendall Johnson, and Aurella Johnson; and special great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Mayo Clinic Health System for the compassionate care provided to Odean.

Visitation for Odean will be from 4 - 7 PM on Thursday, September 10, 2026 at Grace Lutheran Church in Waseca. Visitation will continue one hour prior to service on Friday at the church.

Funeral service will be at 11:00 AM on Friday, September 11, 2026 at Grace Lutheran Church. Burial will be at Vista Lutheran Church in New Richland.