Diane M Johnson

Diane (Deade) Marie Johnson, age 76, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of profound kindness, community service, and vibrant creativity.

A Life of Learning and Adventure

Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on May 19, 1950, to Edward and Marvel Lundeen, Diane grew up in Rochester and Fridley. She graduated from Columbia Heights High School in 1968 and went on to attend Golden Valley Lutheran College. She later attended Bemidji State University for a year—a pivotal time in her life, as it was there that she met the love of her life, Allen Johnson.

The couple married in August 1972, embarking on a beautiful 54-year journey together. Their early marriage took them across the Atlantic to Germany, where they lived for a year during Allen’s military service. Upon returning to Minnesota, they settled in Two Harbors to build their home and raise their family.

Dedicated to Helping Others

Diane was a pillar of her community, known for her generous heart and lifelong dedication to volunteering for numerous causes and organizations. Driven by a deep desire to help others, she returned to school at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. She graduated in 1987 with a degree in Communications and spent the next two decades working in various social work positions, touching countless lives with her empathy and advocacy.

Passion and Creativity

In her later years, Diane continued her volunteer work and blossomed into an active and prolific artist, channeling her unique vision into her work and completing over 100 paintings in just the last five years. When she wasn't at her easel, she cherished spending time with her many grandchildren, dear friends and traveling the region with Allen to attend car shows.

Family and Legacy

Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Marvel Lundeen, and her mother-in-law, Dolores Johnson.

Her memory will be forever cherished by her devoted husband, Allen Johnson; her four children, Aaron (Linda), Leif (Terri), Julianne (Matt), and Angela (Ken); her 11 beloved grandchildren, Alex, Dayanna, Emma, Ian, Lochlan, Logan, Nyaomi, Phoebe, Rowan, Victoria, and Westen; her sisters, Sherry (Dennis) and Amy (Rick); and numerous cherished nieces, nephews, and friends.

Visitation will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 10:00 AM at First United Methodist Church (“The Coppertop”) in Duluth, MN. A service will be held at 11:00 AM, with lunch provided after.