Twyla Johnson

Twyla Johnson, a beloved member of the Evansville, MN community, passed away on September 23, 2023, at the age of 92. Born on November 30, 1930, Twyla was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Harry and Gerda (Hanson) Torgrimson. She brought joy and laughter to the lives she touched and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Twyla was a woman of strong faith. She was baptized December 28, 1930, and she was confirmed at Leaf Mountain Lutheran Church in Clitherall. She graduated from Evansville High School in 1948 and worked at the local drug store. It was during these years that she caught the eye of her future love, Carlton, as he spotted her singing with a friend. They were married on May 27, 1950, in a beautiful ceremony at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Evansville.

As a devoted farm wife, Twyla's days were filled with hard work and determination. She embraced the challenges of farm life alongside her husband, Carlton, and never complained about the tasks at hand. From tending to cattle to milking cows and assisting with field work, she continuously supported her husband every step of the way. Her family often marveled at her unwavering patience, describing her as having the patience of a saint. Rainy days meant fishing trips with her beloved family, creating cherished memories that will be treasured forever.

In 1976, Twyla and Carlton fulfilled one of their dreams by building a lake home on beautiful Eagle Lake. This was a place of solace and tranquility for the entire family. Twyla had a passion for cooking, and the aroma of freshly baked bread often wafted through the house. Her sewing skills were admired by all, as she lovingly crafted clothing for her children.

Twyla’s love for music ran deep, and she shared this passion with her children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren. She was a talented musician, playing the French horn as well as playing the piano and organ at church. She added her melodious voice to the church choir and actively participated in the Ladies Aid and Birthday Group, ensuring that every member felt remembered and cherished on their special day.

Beyond the farm and family life, Twyla and Carlton embarked on many adventures together. They delighted in scenic drives, with each journey promising new sights and wonderful memories. Their love for the great outdoors brought them on snowmobiling trips to the northern and western parts of the country.

Twyla Johnson will forever be remembered for her unwavering love, compassion and dedication to her family and community. She leaves behind a legacy of resilience, gratitude and the beauty of a life well-lived.

Twyla was preceded in death by her husband, Carlton Johnson; parents, Harry and Gerda Torgrimson; three brothers, Lowell (MaryAnn), Dallas and Larry (Diane) Torgrimson; grandson, Jay Holmgren; brothers-in-law, Maurice Johnson and Joe (Janice) Gradin and son-in-law, Dale Beneke.

Twyla is survived by her four children, Dean (Jerolyn) Johnson of Battle Lake, MN, Becky (Scott) Gilbert of Montrose, MN, Marcia Beneke of Evansville, MN and Bev (Mark) Decker of Arvada, CO; 11 grandchildren, Levi, Lydia (Brandon), Carlin (special friend Carlie), Liza, Kyle (Molly), Darrin (Renae), Taylor (Darryl), Amber (Levi), Blake (Jennie), Markelle (Jake) and Alli (fiancé Mike); 20 great-grandchildren, Alexandrea, Stevie, Carlton, Lathum, Veyda, Hazel, Katelyn, Austin, Kade, Pierce, Maya, Frankie, Courtney, Skyler, Madison, Ruby, Simon, Dallas, Ivy and Archer; five great-great-grandchildren, Sutton, Ashton, Londyn, Dominic and Colton; two sisters-in-law, Clarice Torgrimson and Lorraine Johnson, along with numerous family and friends. 

Funeral services to commemorate Twyla's life will be held at 12:00 PM on September 29, 2023, at Faith Lutheran Church in Evansville, MN with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Rev. Bradley Pearson will officiate. Following the ceremony, Twyla will be laid to rest at Mound Grove Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to attend and celebrate her remarkable journey.

Twyla Johnson's memory will forever be etched in our hearts, and her legacy will continue to inspire us all. May she find eternal peace in the arms of her Lord.