Leland Johnson

Leland B. Johnson, 67 passed away at home Monday Jan 1, 2018 surrounded by his family.

Leland Blair Johnson was born in Watertown, SD on August 10, 1950 to Donald and Mary (Rowe) Johnson. He was baptized and confirmed in Grace Lutheran church, Watertown SD. He graduated Watertown High School class of 1968. Lee attended Lake Area Vocational Technical School graduating May 1970, with a degree in machine shop technology.

Lee was drafted in Nov 1970 and proudly served in the Navy under Commander Robert L. Jensen on the Henry B. Wilson (DDG-7). He was honorably discharged in June 1974. After his service Lee moved to Jamestown, ND and worked at Western Gear as a machinist.

Lee and Valerie Olafson married Nov 17, 1981 in Aberdeen, SD. They moved to Beulah, ND in July 1984 where Lee started work at Dakota Gasification Company(DGC). Lee retired and moved to Jamestown August 2010 after 26 years at DGC.

In Aug 2017 Lee was diagnosed with cancer and made the decision to move to West Fargo to be closer to doctors and family.

Lee enjoyed fishing, sharing a few laughs and a beer with friends. He had lots of talents and opinions. He had the goofiest laugh and loved to play practical jokes.

Leland is survived by his wife Valerie, children: Jamie (Doug) Powell, Joy (Steve) Langley, Josh Johnson, Amber (Darin) Grantham, Nicole Hatch, and Kelly Johnson; 6 grandchildren and siblings: Deb (Dan) Hefner, Brad (Deb) Johnson, Marc (Teri) Johnson, and Kim (Dave) Stevens along with many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cherished friends.

Leland was preceded in death by his parents Donald and Mary.

Leland’s wishes were to be cremated and have services later in the spring followed by burial at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Mandan.

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

westfuneralhome.com