Alan "AJ" Johnson

The family of Alan George Johnson are saddened to announce his passing on May 23, 2026 at the age of 95. Alan was born on December 6, 1930 to Grant and Edith Johnson who were pioneers in the Cuthbert district south of Alsask. A younger brother for Earl, Ivor, Joyce and Norma with brothers Robert and Wayne added to the family in the following years.

Growing up on the farm meant there were always chores to do, some of which were done on horseback. Alan became a proficient rider, travelling many miles exploring the area and visiting neighbours. He spent his early school years at the Lloyd George one-room country school, then on to the two-story brick school in Alsask for grades 7-12. Alan was a good athlete, participating in track and field during high school. He played hockey and baseball for many years, as well as enjoying a round of golf or a bicycle ride. With the tragic loss of Ivor in 1943 and Earl serving with the Allied Forces in the 2nd World War, Alan was pressed into major duties on the farm at a fairly young age. This experience would lead him into a lifelong relationship with the land and a career in farming and ranching.

The farm expanded in size and Hereford cattle were raised in the earlier years, being replaced with a purebred Simmental operation in the 70's and 80's. Alan continued to help raise crops and contribute his expertise on a regular basis until 2009 when he stepped back from the seeding and harvest operations to a less demanding position as the senior crop inspector. He thoroughly enjoyed his role of checking crops throughout the growing season. While the farm was near the top of the list, dedication to his family was the most important aspect of his life.

He met Grace Cowie at a Boxing Day dance in Alsask and following a long-distance courtship they were married on July 14, 1956. They took over his parents' home on the Cuthbert farm and completed some renovations to modernize the house. Together Alan and Grace raised three children - Greg, Debbie and Darrin. In early 1966, the family moved into a new home in Alsask as their lives were becoming much busier. Alan was active in the community coaching Minor Sports, helping to build and operate the ice arena, carrying out many roles as a Charter Member of the Alsask Lions Club, and serving as a Municipal Councillor (for 36 years).

When Alan wasn't volunteering in his community, he enjoyed some memorable trips as well as spending time camping with family and friends. In later years, leisure time was spent at the cabin on Jackfish Lake in the summer and in Mesa, Arizona during the winter. He had a variety of other interests that ranged from playing cards and reading(especially history) to taking on numerous building projects. In 2009, Alan and Grace moved into a townhouse at the Caleb development in Kindersley that provided a new adventure for them over many wonderful years.

Following Grace's passing in July 2023, Alan remained in the townhouse until January 2025. At that time he moved into the Caleb Apartment, where he lived until his passing. Alan was a man with a deep commitment to his family, friends, farm and community. He always lent a hand when it was needed and will be truly missed by son Greg(Susan), granddaughter Karla Johnson, greatgrandchildren Genevieve and Dominik, grandson Joe Johnson(Dalina Graham), granddaughter Erin(Brian)Bryksa, great-grandchildren Braden, Ainsley, Mason and Devynn; daughter Debbie(Sam) Banks, granddaughter Nicole(Justin) Dzuba, great-grandchildren Jayde and Tobin, granddaughter Amanda Banks (Emmett Harrison), great-grandchild Elliott, grandson Mitch Banks; son Darrin(Shelley), grandchildren Adam and Connor as well as brother Wayne (Darlene) Johnson and sister-in law Lori Johnson along with numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the Kindersley Elks Hall on Monday, June 29th at 2:30pm. A private family interment of the ashes will immediately follow the service. Please join the family in the small hall to enjoy a hot lunch and share memories. Donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

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