Douglas Michael Johnson, Sr.

Douglas Michael Johnson Sr., 59, of Hillman, MN, passed away after a long illness on Thursday January 22, 2026, in Aspirus Health, St. Luke’s Hospital surrounded by his family. He was born on August 21, 1966, to Lyle Johnson and Carol Driscoll in Duluth, MN.

During his childhood, Doug attended Northwestern School District, in Maple WI as well as Two Harbors School district, in Two Harbors, MN. In his adult life, Doug lived in Two Harbors, Hill City, Hibbing and elsewhere, during this time he built memorable relationships with his coworkers and neighbors. He was always willing to help someone in need- generous with his time and mechanical expertise and was very grateful for all the friendships he built over the years.

When Doug wasn't working, he loved being outdoors, working on his many vehicles, snowmobiles, wheelers, fish houses etc., along with many family’ and friends’ vehicles and machines. He shared his passion for the outdoors hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, four-wheeling or wood- working especially with those he loved.

Doug was the life of the party, always the prankster, and always telling jokes. There isn't a person who has met him who doesn't have some sort of story to share about their relationship with them. Despite the difficulties in his final days and preparing to say goodbye, there was an abundance of laughter while sharing these stories and memories he had made with friends and family. In true Doug fashion, this difficult time was met with a reminder of his love, friendship and his ability to bring people together.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and the mother of his daughter, Charmain Colby.

He is survived by his children Ashley (David) Chase, and Douglas Johnson Jr., siblings Keith (Shane) Johnson, Jeanette Coleman, Nanette Ayotte, Colleen Trump, Cindy (Paul) Barton, Tina (Brian Turbeville) Driscoll, and Mathew Mattison, grandson Duncan Chase, many aunts, uncles, cousins, including his special nieces and nephews Derek (Jennifer) Johnson, Danielle Johnson, and great nieces and nephews Evelyn Johnson, and Riley and Asher Sebesta, special aunts and uncles Jim Quist, and Kathy and Doug Jensen.

The family would like to extend gratitude to the staff at Aspirus Health, St. Luke's Hospital for their compassionate care during Doug's hospitalization.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home. 600 E. 2nd St. Duluth, MN. 55805. 218-727-3555