Ken Johnson

Kinsley “Ken” Johnson, 76, of New London, died Tuesday, April 15 at CentraCare-Rice Hospital in Willmar. His memorial service will be 11:00 am, Monday, April 21 at Peace Lutheran Church in New London. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson & Johnson Funeral Home. www.hafh.org

Kinsley “Ken” Johnson was born on August 17, 1948, in Willmar, Minnesota, to Arthur and Hazel (Olson) Johnson. He was baptized and confirmed at Eagle Lake Lutheran Church and attended New London-Spicer High School.

On May 21, 1969, Ken married Kayleen Hedtke at St. John’s Lutheran Church in rural Atwater. The couple made their home in the Willmar area, where Ken worked for Great Plains Gas Company. They later moved to the family farm in New London, where Ken pursued his passion for woodworking—crafting furniture and refinishing antiques. He retired in 2022.

Ken and Kay were longtime members of Peace Lutheran Church. Ken had a deep love for fishing, racing, woodworking, and keeping his cars spotless. He and Kay enjoyed scenic back road drives and antiquing together. Ken was also a member of the local hotrod club.

Ken is survived by his loving wife, Kayleen; daughters, Tammie Johnson and Melissa (Patrick) Sutlief; grandchildren: Nikki Forcia, Jarode Forcia, Marissa (Tyler) Icazuriaga, Adam (Sophia), Amber, and Christian Sutlief; and his sister, Myrna (Larry) Heck; and seven great-grandchildren. He is also remembered fondly by many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Hazel; his son, Craig Allen; and his siblings: Allen Johnson, Ione Korsmo, and Sherry Shoemaker.

Today, our family is grieving the loss of a truly remarkable man—our dad. He left this world peacefully, surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and unwavering love for his family.

Dad was more than a father—he was our teacher, our protector, our biggest supporter, and our constant source of strength. His wisdom, sense of humor, and generous spirit touched the lives of everyone who knew him.

While words will never be enough to express how much we miss him, we find comfort in the memories we carry and the love he gave so freely.

Rest in peace, Dad. You will forever be in our hearts.

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