Gerald Jerry Charles Johansen
Gerald “Jerry” Charles Johansen
Gerald “Jerry” Charles Johansen, 85, went to heaven on June 20, 2017, surrounded by his entire family and three granddaughters singing “Amazing Grace.”
Jerry’s legacy is broad and deep. He was a believer in Jesus, devoted father, loving “Grandaddy” and “Grand,” faithful friend, providing husband of 48 years, inspiring businessman, and a mentor to all. Jerry was a Renaissance man with passions for literature, politics, world history, music, art, golf, animals, business, and God’s Word. He possessed the “art of asking questions,” drawing out people and unlocking their potential.
Jerry was born in Chicago, Illinois, on Oct. 23, 1931 to John Jack Johansen and Alvilda Andresen Johansen, both first generation Norwegian-Americans. Jerry started in business with his own paper route at 5 years old. He graduated from Steinmetz High School as president of his senior class, captain of the basketball team, president of the Boy’s Choir, and an Eagle Scout. He earned a full scholarship to Northwestern University, where he was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and received a bachelor of science in Liberal Arts.
Jerry became a Captain in the U.S. Marine Corps and bravely served his country in the Korean War. While stationed in Japan, he created a mission to deliver excess military base food to locals in need. Jerry moved to San Francisco and worked for 3M International, where he became the leading salesman. He met and married Joan Menefee Johansen, and they had three children in four years. With a promotion at 3M, Jerry transferred his family to Dallas, Texas. Soon after, he accepted the CEO position at Thuron Industries. He was a valued speaker for the American Management Association for 20 years.
In 1978, Jerry came alongside his daughter to found Ginnie Johansen Designs, a fashion accessories company. As CEO of GJD for 12 years, he led the company to distribute in 3,000 stores. Jerry mentored the entire team in professional development. Everyone who worked under his leadership earned a “Jerry MBA” of business knowledge. Jerry worked with his eldest son, Jeff, with various businesses. In 2014, Jerry mentored his second daughter, Jane Crowshaw, as she launched her own business and life-coaching firm, The Essence Group.
Jerry’s favorite place on earth was Whitefish. The Johansens made Whitefish their second home after a family vacation in 1970. Jerry started the Flathead Music Festival, bringing world-class talent to Montana to perform and as well as to train young musicians.
Jerry joined Highland Park United Methodist Church in 1962. He loved the Lord Jesus Christ with all his heart, soul, mind, and strength. Jerry counted it one of his highest privileges to be disciple by his pastor Jim Borchert in the final eight years of his life in Dallas. Until his last day, Jerry proclaimed Jesus’ name with passion and conviction. His favorite verse was Philippians 4:4-7, “Rejoice in the Lord always ... Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Jerry is survived by his three children, Jeffrey Johansen, Ginnie Johnson and husband Wayne, Jane Crowshaw and partner Jacqueline; three Johnson granddaughters Elizabeth and her husband Parker Melvin, Sarah, and Caroline; two Crowshaw grandsons Chad and Mitch and his wife Carla; niece Rhonde Reeves and nephew Kjehl Johansen; great-granddaughter Rosie Melvin.
Jerry was dearly remembered at his funeral service at Highland Park United Methodist Church in Dallas on Thursday, June 29 at 3 p.m. Jerry’s military burial was held the following day at the DFW National Cemetery with a 21 gun salute.
Jerry had a heart for Israel. Memorial contributions can be made to the Ariel Medical Center and Hospital in Israel, friendsofariel.org. Dallas family contact: ginniej7@aol.com.