Darrel Theodore Johnson

Darrel "Divy" was born in Viking, MN, on January 24th, 1936. He was raised on the family farm by his parents, Frank and Mabel. On June 30, 1956 he married Iris, the love of his life, and they were married for 50 years. Shortly after Darrel and Iris married, they moved to the twin cities where Darrel got a job at Whirlpool. Darrel was hard working. In addition to working full-time as a welder at Whirlpool, he also worked part-time as a landscaper. This led him to begin his own lawn care and landscaping business which he worked at until he retired. During this time Darrel and Iris settled in Cottage Grove where they proudly raised two sons, Glen and Gary.

Darrel loved to hunt, fish and travel, but his greatest passion was music and he enjoyed entertaining family and friends. Darrel sang in the church choir and participated in karaoke night at a local establishment where he was affectionately given the name “Mr. Cattle Call.” Darrel’s ability to yodel was exceptional. One year, while participating in a music event at the state fair, he received a standing ovation for his singing and famous yodel. Darrel was a crowd favorite. In addition to living in Cottage Grove, Darrel enjoyed the winter months in Arizona.

Darrel is preceded in death by beloved wife of 50 years, Iris; parents, Frank and Mabel; brothers, Ferl, Laverne, and Ellery; and sisters, Ardis, Oryla, and Thoreene "June". He is survived by loving sons, Glen and Gary; grandchildren, Rachael, Abbie (fiancé, Aaron Minglin), Sarah (Patrick) Biffle, and Gabe; brother, Willis "Billy" (Joyce); and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Funeral Service 11 AM with visitation beginning at 9 AM, Friday, April 4, 2025, at Kok Funeral Home, 7676 80th St. S., Cottage Grove, MN 55016. Burial at Cottage Grove Cemetery, Cottage Grove, MN.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Alzheimer's Assocation (Alzheimer's Association | Alzheimer's Disease & Dementia Help)