Bruce Edward Johnson

Bruce Edward Johnson, “Baggers”, 66, of Grand Marais died Saturday, May 2, 2026 at home as was his desire. He was diagnosed in 2007 with Oligodendroglioma, a type of brain cancer. Bruce went through surgeries, chemo, and radiation treatments with determination and was known for his positive attitude in all circumstances.

He was born December 26, 1959 to Paul and Ethel (Kragnes) Johnson in Grand Marais. Bruce attended school in Cook County and worked at the family grocery store that was founded by his grandfather, Matt Johnson. He attended Detroit Lakes Area Vocational -Technical School and completed the 18 month course in construction.

Bruce loved to travel and see other parts of the country. After graduation he spent time adventuring and working in Florida, Colorado, and Alaska before returning to Grand Marais to help build a new house for his parents on Lake Superior.

Bruce then moved to Alaska where he had many adventures. He loved to tell stories about his many hunting and fishing experiences and flights in his Cessna 140.

On June 27, 1992 he married Rosie Cukla and they enjoyed 27 years of marriage. He shared the last chapter of his life with Stacey, who became his wife in March of 2024. Bruce introduced Stacey to many new adventures, in which she was a good sport and went along with MOST of his adventures.

Bruce was a baptized and confirmed member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church. He served as cemetery sexton for Poplar Grove Cemetery for many years. He also served his church by taking on many maintenance and remodeling projects at the church.

Bruce designed and built many homes in Cook County. He was a craftsman and took pride in the building that he did.

Bruce loved fishing and made many trips to Isle Royale in his boat, ‘Hi-Hopes’. He enjoyed snowmobiling, skiing, BWCA trips, spending time at the family cabin, and traveling in his RV.

Bruce was preceded in death by his father, Paul, and wife, Rosie and his grandparents.

Bruce is survived by wife, Stacey; mother, Ethel; Siblings Susan (Joe) Holtz, Mark (Robin) Johnson, Teresa (Steve) Bragg; bonus children Kyler (Kelly) Hawsen, Kalli Hawkins, Brennan (Kaitlynn) Hawkins; five bonus grandchildren who he loved as his own, and six nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at 11 AM on Friday, May 8, 2026 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Grand Marais.

May is Brain Cancer Awareness. Memorials will be made to oligonation.org and Bruce’s church, Bethlehem Lutheran Poplar Grove Cemetery Fund.