Johnson, Otto O. 1871 - 1921

JOHNSON, HELGERSON

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 2/18/2018 at 11:31:06

Elkader Register, Thur., 20 Oct. 1921.

Otto O. Johnson, a prominent citizen of St. Olaf and cashier of the St. Olaf's Savings Bank died Tuesday morning October 18th at about 9:30 at the Lenth Hospital in Elkader, of intestinal trouble. Mr. Johnson, who has not been in good health for several years became worse last week and was brought here for medical treatment Friday. A consultation of physicians was held Saturday but his case baffled medical skill and he passed away Tuesday morning.

Otto O. Johnson was born in Wagner township, Clayton county, Iowa, Oct. 2nd, 1871, the eldest of thirteen children born to Ole and Anna Johnson. He received his education in the common schools, remaining on the home farm until he was twenty-six years of age. In August 1900 he was married to Miss Caroline Helgerson and two children, Alenta Josephine and Leroy, came to bless their home. Mr. Johnson engaged in the hardware business in St. Olaf for several years and on Sept. first 1903 was appointed postmaster of that place, holding the position for twelve years. He was one of the organizers of the St. Olaf Saving Bank and in 1908 became its cashier. In 1915 he resigned his position as postmaster to give his entire time to the affairs of the bank.

Mr. Johnson has always taken an active interest in public affairs and has served his township and town with honor in various capacities. Always public spirited and enterprising, with sound business judgement he has been a great asset to the community and his death will leave a vacancy that will be difficult to fill.

In addition to his wife and children Mr. Johnson is survived by a number of brothers and sisters and other relatives who have the sympathy of the community in his untimely death.

Mr. Johnson's remains were taken to the home in St. Olaf Wednesday afternoon and the funeral services will be held Friday afternoon at 1:00 o'clock at the home and at about 2:00 o'clock at the Norway church of which he was a prominent member. Rev. Nels Arveson will officiate and interment will be in Norway cemetery.