Rooney Family Tree

Ernie and Ansgar were both born on a farm near the Missouri River in North Dakota, delivered by their father.

Ernest James ("Ernie") Johansen was born February 3, 1933 in Williams County, North Dakota, the second son of Arvid and Mabel (Gaffaney) Johansen. The family moved to Minnesota when Ernie was five years old, and Alexandria became home, where he graduated from Central High School in 1952.

Soon after graduating, Ernie enlisted in the Navy, where he served for four years on a number of ships and in various parts of the world. Upon returning from his tour of duty, he enrolled in a railroad dispatching course, and then spent the rest of his working life with the Milwaukee Road in various locations, including Madison, Wisconsin and Dubuque and McGregor, Iowa. Upon his retirement from the railroad, Ernie moved back to Alexandria to the family home to care for his mother. In his retirement, he enjoyed gardening, and was proud of his vegetables as well as the numerous fruit trees he planted and tended. He took meticulous care of the house as well.

In 2007, following a stroke, Ernie moved to Knute Nelson Care Center. He passed away there on May 20, 2010.

He is survived by brothers Arvid, Ansgar and Pete, sisters-in-law Beverly and Mary, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother Jarl, and nephew, Francis Johansen.

Very special thanks to brother Pete for caring for Ernie at home for several months prior to his move to Knute Nelson, and for taking care of Ernie's affairs throughout his final years.

A memorial service was held on Wednesday, May 26, 2010 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Alexandria with Reverend Steve Binsfeld officiating. Music was provided by Laurie Youngers and Tom Molder.

Inurnment was in St. Mary's Cemetery. Military Honors were provided by the Alexandria American Legion Post 87, VFW Post 936 and the Minnesota National Honor Guard.

Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria, Minnesota.