Merle Johnson, 81, died at Forest View Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Itasca, IL, on December 11, 2017.

Merle Dean Johnson was born August 14, 1936, in White Earth, MN, the son of Helmer and Hazel (Fairbanks) Johnson. Over the years, Merle became loving known by his nickname of "Minnie Pearl" to many. He was raised in the Mahnomen community where he attended school. Following his high school graduation from Mahnomen, in 1954, Merle entered the United States Army where he was stationed in the Aleutian Islands, Alaska. He served his country during the Korean Conflict. Upon his honorable discharge, he made his home in Villa Park, IL, for a time before moving to Wood Dale, IL, where he lived most of his life. He was married to Mary (Thielen-Dickman) for many years.

Merle was employed by Edward-Hien's Lumber Company working as a truck driver and later as a gate attendant until his retirement. He was known on many occasions, to offer dog treats to any customers visiting the lumber yard with their canine friends. During his younger years, Merle, and Mary managed the apartment complex in Wood Dale, IL where they lived. Merle resided there until June of 2017, then moving to Forest View Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Itasca, IL.

His Catholic religion gave Merle great pride. He carried with him a prayer card with the first Native American Saint, Kateri Tekakwitha. Merle was also very proud of his Native American heritage. He loved to tell stories of his upbringing and life experiences. When he was able to, he enjoyed driving to Minnesota to visit his mother.

Merle is survived by one sister, Helen (Arvin) Zilmer of Aurora, MN along with several nieces; He was preceded in death by his parents, Helmer and Hazel; three brothers: Harold, Richard and Robert; and a nephew, Robert Jr.

Memorial services will be held January 8, 2018, at 11:00 a.m. in the Anderson Family Funeral Home in Mahnomen, MN, with burial in the St. Michael's Catholic Cemetery with full military honors.