Steven "TB" Russell Johnson

Steven “TB” Russell Johnson, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2024, at his home in Albert Lea, MN.   Born and raised in Manchester, MN, Steven was one of twelve children, born on October 24, 1951, to Selmer and Ruth (Hanson) Johnson, and grew up surrounded by a vibrant community that shaped his strong work ethic and kind-hearted nature. He attended Albert Lea Schools and later embarked on a diverse career, working at various local establishments including Albert Lea Auto Salvage and Holmsten Rink Master.

In 1991, TB pursued further education at Austin College, where he honed his skills in trades such as carpeting and tiling before eventually retiring from Pro Manufacturing. Known as a Jack of all trades, he was always willing to lend a helping hand with house repairs and was often seen assisting neighborhood kids with their bikes, displaying his generous spirit and reliability to all who knew him.

On September 4, 1976, TB married his childhood friend Sandra Leidal, with whom he shared a deep bond. Together, they embraced parenthood, raising Sandi's sons, Damian and Miguel, and welcoming their own son, Jeremiah. With a shared love for adventure, TB and Sandi enjoyed traveling the open road on TB's Harley, exploring different states and embarking on weekend road trips. TB's passion for classic cars led him to restore his beloved 1953 Ford, and he also found joy in racing his #19 dirt track car at area tracks and passing on his love for the sport to Jeremiah in which he became his dedicated fan and pit crew.

In addition to his hobbies, he had a soft spot for Western shows, often watching them repeatedly and he would recite the storyline by heart. Renowned for his homemade banana bread, TB's culinary talents were matched only by his devotion to his family. Becoming a grandparent was a crowning achievement for him, as he embraced the role of a beloved grandpa with enthusiasm. Gracing every event with his presence, TB's grandkids knew him as their biggest cheerleader. Known for his playful demeanor and ability to connect with his grandkids, TB was often said to be "a kid at heart, just taller."

A man of unwavering kindness, TB will be dearly missed by his loving wife, Sandi; sons, Damian “Dusty” Cardona, Miguel “Mike” (Danyel) Cardona, and Jeremiah (Katie) Johnson; grandchildren, Damian (Tori) Schroeder, David Schroeder, Darik (Skylar) Weigel, Demitra Cardona, Marley Cardona, Morgan (Hayden Presley) Cardona, Rian Cardona, Elias, Savannah, and Josephina Johnson; great-grandchildren, Myla, Paityn, and Wrenleigh Schroeder, Leo and Nevaeh Schroeder, Brooks Weigel and Miles Rikala; siblings, Darlene Hendrickson, Marlene Johansen, Gilbert (Mary) Johnson, Julie Telles, and Paul (Josephine) Johnson; sisters-in-law, JoAnn Palmer, Janice Matson, Jean Carmichael, Judy (Gary) Fisher, Susan (Jack) Weitzel, Shellie Schroeder, Gail Johnson, and Joy Johnson; brother-in-law, Orien Loe; and many nieces and nephews.

TB was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather, Paul Werner, siblings, Stanley (Shirley) Johnson, John Johnson, Dale Johnson, Delores Loe, David Johnson, and Merrill Johnson; sister-in-law, Sharon Diaz; brothers-in-law, Lloyd Palmer, Daryl Matson, Jon Carmichael, Douglas Schroeder, Jerry Hendrickson, and Red Johansen; and niece, Nicole Fisher.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 17, 2024 at 10:00 at Grace Lutheran Church in Albert Lea, MN; Pastor Shane Koepke will officiate.  TB’s family will greet guests at a visitation on Thursday, May 16, 2024, from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at Bonnerup Funeral and Cremation Services and one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be at Hillcrest Cemetery. 

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