Maurice Barlow Johnson

Maury went peacefully into the arms of his Savior on March 25, 2025 at his home in Hugo, Minnesota with his family at his side. Born in Fargo, North Dakota to Carl and Alice (Benson) Johnson, on November 15, 1924. In his 100 years Maury lived a full life marked by strong faith in his Lord and was never hesitant to share his faith with others.

Maury proudly served his country in the United States Army during World War II, earning a Bronze Star, Combat Infantry badge, a Presidential citation and other combat medals. He was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds sustained fighting in the Battle of the Bulge. His determination allowed him to overcome paralysis and go on to earn his Bachelor's degree in Architecture from NDSU in 1951. Maury met Donna on a blind date arranged by a mutual friend. They married in September of 1960 and moved into a small house on Lake Josephine in Arden Hills where they lived for 45 years and raised three children. In 1970, Maury undertook the design and full remodeling of the house while working full time as a commercial architect.

Maury's love for family was always present, but never more than when he was with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Special birthday dinners with each grandchild, taking them up to the home in Silver Bay and roasting hotdogs with them at the Silver Bay marina are some of the things that brought him great joy.

Fourth of July parties at the lake and annual apple weekend in Bayfield WI are just two of the traditions with family and friends that meant a lot to him. Whether hunting, fishing, hiking, cross country skiing, or picking blueberries for plate-licking good blueberry pie, outdoors was the place he loved to be. He was a loving husband and father, grandfather and friend, and will be dearly missed.

Maury was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Alice; siblings, Eugene (Donna Mae), Gordon, Doris (Wayne) Allen. He is survived by his wife, of 64 years, Donna Mae; children, Mark (Penny), Karen (Jim) Barsness, Scott (Sue); grandchildren, Rachel (Kaleb) McGuire, Nathan (Allison), Rebekah (Austin Vaughn), Tyler Barsness, Alycia (David) Lee, Connor Barsness, Annika Barsness, Ben (Michaela), Emily; great-grandchildren, Bjorn, Beckham, Evelyn; sister-in-law, Marjorie Johnson; many nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral service will be 11:00am Saturday, April 12, 2025 at Bridgewood Community Church, 11670 Lexington Avenue, Blaine, with visitation one hour prior. Interment with military honors will be at 11:00am Monday, April 14 at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. 

Memorials to The Salvation Army or the charity of your choice.