Viking – Linda Johnson, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Sanford Medical Center in Fargo, ND, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born on September 2, 1946, in Brooks, to Eugene and Vivian (Lynch) Bruggeman and graduated from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls with the Class of 1964. Pursuing her passion for animal science, she attended the University of Minnesota-Crookston.
On March 26, 1976, Linda Bruggeman was united in marriage to Mike Johnson in Sisseton, SD. Together, they shared a beautiful life in the Viking area on the family farm.
Linda worked as a secretary at L.B. Hartz Wholesale, later moving to Washington State where she worked for Boeing. After returning to the area, she worked for local farmers and also worked at Arctic Cat until her retirement in 2014.
Linda was very outgoing and enjoyed having a good time visiting with friends and family. Her interests were many, including gardening, hunting, reading, watching Western movies on TV, playing bingo, bowling, camping, fishing, and spending time at the lake.
Linda found joy in cooking, baking, and canning, often selling her baked goods, particularly her delicious donuts, at the Farmer’s Market.
Above all, she treasured spending time with her grandchildren, creating lasting memories that will be cherished by all.
Linda’s commitment to her community was evidenced by her active involvement in various organizations. She was a proud member of the VFW Post #2793 Auxiliary, the Marshall County Historical Society, and the Rosebank Historical Society, where she served as treasurer. Additionally, she was a dedicated member of Rindal Lutheran Church and served as the sexton of Rindal Cemetery Association for many years. Her contributions to the community extended to her role as a 4-H leader and her involvement with the Homemakers Club, showcasing her passion for service and connection.
Linda is survived by her son, Wayne (Mary) Johnson; stepdaughter, Jennifer (Paul) Johnson; stepson, Steven (Rosemary) Johnson; son-in-law, Jerome Maki; and her beloved grandchildren, Thomas Helgeson, Tyler (Kayla) Helgeson, Ashley Helgeson, Anna Johnson, and Alexander Johnson; step-grandchildren, Rachael Largis, Eric (Liz) Lagerstrom, Kyle (Shawna) Lagerstrom, Nicholas (Jenny) Lagerstrom, Michael Lagerstrom, Aleshia Lagerstrom, Rebecca Johnson, Andrew Johnson, Brandon Bruggeman, Paige (Brandon) Langaas, and Ty Johnson; along with several great-grandchildren; and great-great-grandchildren; brother, Stan (Sue) Bruggeman; nieces, Lydia and Zoe; nephews, Guy (Nadine) and Jared (Laura) Bruggeman.
Linda was preceded in death by her husband, Mike; her parents, Eugene and Vivian; her brothers, Gary and Dwight Bruggeman; stepdaughter, Natalie Maki; stepson-in-law, Donald Lagerstrom; sisters-in-law, Patricia Henning and Audrey Bruggeman; and nephew, Gavin Bruggeman.
A visitation will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 5–7 p.m., with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, with Pastor Ollie Urdahl officiating.
The funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 1 p.m. with visitation one hour prior at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, with Reverend Timothy Lundeen officiating.
Burial will follow at Rindal Cemetery, rural Newfolden.
Linda Johnson leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and community service. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew her.
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