Rees Magnus Johnson

Rees Magnus Johnson, affectionately known as "Swede" by his many friends and "Grumpy" by his nine great grandchildren, passed away on Friday, June 9, 2006. Rees, 90, a lifelong resident of Rushford, was born May 2, 1916. He attended Rushford High School and in 1934 he graduated from St. John's Military Academy in Delafield, Wisconsin. On March 17, 1941 Rees and Betty Iverson were married.Prior to serving as Rushford's Postmaster for 25 years, Rees owned and operated the Johnson Elevator. Clearly defining what it means to be a member of the community, Rees served on Rushford's City Council and was the last living charter member of Rushford's Lion's Club. In addition to serving as its President, Rees was instrumental in the development of Ferndale Country Club. He was President of the Bi-County Postmasters' Organization and a Past Master of the Mystic Star Masonic Lodge #69. As a devoted member of the Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Rees served on its Vestry for over 25 years.Rees is survived by Betty, his bride of 64 years. They have four sons and four daughters-in-law; Rees & Cathy (Hot Springs Village, AR), Stephen & DiAnn (Chanhassen, MN), Craig & Madge (Burnsville, MN) and Scott & Jennifer (Rushford). In addition to their nine great grandchildren (Henry, Morgan, Jacob, Jillian, Ryan, Matthew, Halli, Aaron & Lauren), they have seven grandchildren; Tina Smith (Chris), Stephani Sundry (Craig), Michael Johnson (Heidi), Shawn Johnson (Jami), Tiffany Wortman (Adam), Leah Bungener (William) and Bridget Johnson. Rees was preceded in death by his grandson Kyle Johnson and his sister Elizabeth Peglow.Funeral services will be held at 11AM on Tuesday June 13, 2006, at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Rushford, 217 W. Jessie Street, with the Rev. Ben Scott officiating. A Masonic service will follow. Burial will occur in Rushford City Cemetery at a later date. Friends may call one hour before services at the church. Hoff Funeral Home's ? Rushford Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Please share a memory of Rees at his on-line Guestbook at www.hofffuneral.com.