Obituary/Anthony “Tony” James Johnson, 46

May 11, 2026
Anthony “Tony” James Johnson Anthony “Tony” James Johnson

Anthony “Tony” James Johnson passed away unexpectedly at the age of 46 following ongoing health challenges on Wednesday, May 6, 2026.
 Tony was born to Gary and Paula Johnson at Greenbush Hospital in Greenbush, Minnesota. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Edward's Catholic Church. 
Tony attended Karlstad High School in Karlstad, Minnesota, graduating in 1998. He attended Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, where he earned a degree in auto body repair. Following school, he worked at Johnson Paint and Repair in Karlstad with his father, Gary. Over the years, he also worked at Northern Motors in Thief River Falls, hauled sugar beets, and drove a school bus.
He enjoyed spending time at the racetrack, cheering on his dad and then his son, Alex, as well as hunting and fishing. More than anything, he loved spending time with his children, family, and friends. He was also an avid Twins and Vikings fan.
 Tony will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
 Tony is survived by his mother, Paula; his four children, McKenzee, Alex (Kylie), Zach, and Lucas; his brother, Brent (Emily); his sister, Nikki (Daniel) Stusynski; his brother, Jason (Nowell); and his nieces and nephews, Carson, Bowyn, Caitlyn, Vylla, Knox, Caylee, Finley, and Carter, along with several aunts and uncles.
He was preceded in death by his father, Gary Johnson; his grandparents, Anton and Viola Novacek, and Norman and Sophie Johnson; and several aunts and uncles.
 A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Edward's Catholic Church, Karlstad, MN, on Wednesday, May 13, at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Karlstad City Cemetery. Arrangements by Austin Funeral Home, Hallock.