James “JJ” Johnson passed on March 1, 2024, in Minneapolis at the age of 71 after a long battle with cancer. JJ grew up in Annandale, MN. He taught Elementary School in Waubun MN, Annandale, MN and Stavanger, Norway. After receiving his Master’s Degree at St. Thomas University he worked as a Software Developer at ETA Systems, Unisys, and Cray Research. He then worked at the University of MN for 25 years; most recently at their Supercomputing Institute contributing to cancer research. He is survived by wife, Cheri Toftey; children, Kate (Chad) Toftey Erickson, Dane Toftey Scheffler, loving grand-daughters Evelyn and Eliza; siblings Sandra Hobbs, Curtis (Barb) Johnson, Dean (Barb) Johnson and Lyndon Johnson. JJ spent his time in Grand Marais frequently hiking Sweetheart’s Bluff, working in his garden, foraging for mushrooms, and enjoying smoked fish from The Fisherman’s Daughter. Celebration of life will take place at The Norway House on March 18, 2024, at 11:30am.
 Memorial Contributions may be made to Hamilton Habitat Inc. at www.hamiltonhabitat.wordpress.com. A special thank you to the staff at the Masonic Cancer Center and to all of the blood and platelet donors. Please consider donating blood or platelets in his honor.