Johnson, James Anthony Ralph James Anthony Ralph Johnson died peacefully on October 12, 2022. JAR, Jim or Jimmy was truly one of a kind. He lived a life full of family, friends, laughter and travel. In his own words, he "was a lucky little man." JAR had an infectious smile that matched his wicked sense of humor. He lived by the words of Robert Frost's "The Road Less Traveled," which was his lifelong pursuit. Visitors to his various homes were usually greeted by his unique fashion sense, which included designer bathrobes with a matching pair of slippers and hat, often accompanied by his favorite Starbucks Mocha Frappuccino. JAR spent most of his professional life in the grain industry, where he was not just a fierce and fair competitor, but also a friend and mentor to many. In fact, he was often referred to as the "King of Beans." Outside of work, JAR was a passionate gardener, avid bird watcher and a dedicated Minnesota Twins fan he attended every World Series home game in 1987 and 1991. He was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on April 14, 1928, to Josephine and Arthur Johnson. He grew up in Minneapolis with his brothers Joe and Arthur Jr. JAR spent his high school years at Minneapolis West High School. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and proudly reached the rank of Lieutenant Colonel while an officer in the Army reserves. JAR attended the University of Minnesota, where he studied business with a focus on accounting. He joined the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, during which time he developed many lifelong friends. He began his professional career at Pillsbury Grain Company before founding Sunrise Grain, a corn and soybean trading company, where he worked until he retired as CEO in 1987. Through his lifelong pursuit of travel, JAR built communities in places less traveled across the world. His first acquisition was a unique, rustic cabin on Big Island on Lake Minnetonka, built by Governor Clough in the late 1890s. The cabin has maintained its rustic décor while welcoming countless visitors and will continue to do so for many years to come. In the fall of 1974, JAR and his family moved to Aspen, Colorado, where he built a beautiful home on Red Mountain to host family and friends from around the world. During this period, he also spent much time in New York City, where he discovered his passion for art, music and dance. In his later years, he ventured to Puerto Escondido, Mexico, where he became a staple in the community, often entertaining at his home on the Pacific Ocean. JAR truly led a life well lived and enjoyed every bit of it his way. JAR is survived by his children: Ward Johnson (Terri), Cinda Collins (Rick), Kristin Johnson, Kathleen Johnson, and Eric Johnson (Heather); his son-in-law Tom Vangsness; his grandchildren: Sarah, Michelle, Silas, Ben, Emily, CT, Kella, Erica, James, Hope, and Hunter; and his great-grandchildren: Teddy and Penelope. Donations can be made to the Robert L. Collins Music Fund at Breck School.

Published on May 14, 2023