11/17/2025
Eric Johnson
November 2, 1933 – November 13, 2025
Eric Ernest Johnson was born on November 2, 1933, on the Johnson homestead near Swanson, Saskatchewan, and passed away during the night of November 13, 2025, shortly after celebrating his 92nd birthday.
He was the oldest of four children born to Minnie and Ernest Johnson. Eric spent his early years on the farm but began exploring other opportunities in his late teens. He worked as a longshoreman in Vancouver, spent winters on a logging crew in the Rose Valley area, and did some trapping in northern Canada. After his adventures throughout western and northern Canada, he decided to return to the Swanson district and purchased a farm near his parents.
On October 8, 1966, Eric married Marilyn Fern Ritchie, and the two began farming together. They welcomed their first son, Bernie, in 1967, followed by their second son, Mike, in 1969. In addition to farming, Eric worked intermittently at the Outlook Auction with his long-time friend Walt Smith and as a crop insurance adjuster.
Eric and Marilyn lived on the farm until Marilyn moved to the Outlook and District Health Centre -Long Term Care in the spring of 2016. Eric continued farming with Mike until he "retired" in 2020, at which point he relocated to an apartment in Outlook. About four years ago, he joined Marilyn at the Outlook and District Health Centre – Long Term Care, where he enjoyed reconnecting with many friends. Eric had a sweet tooth, making him a favourite among the other residents when they discovered his candy stash. He was very grateful for the love and care provided by the staff at the Outlook and District Health Centre – Long Term Care to both him and Marilyn.
Eric appreciated life and loved telling stories and tall tales about his many adventures. He took delight in teasing others—many friends and family members experienced his teasing. Eric loved his dogs, and it was not uncommon to find one beside him or sitting on his lap, enjoying whatever Eric was snacking on at the time. Eric had a passion for gardening and possessed extensive knowledge about plants, which he shared freely. He was a very sociable person and seldom missed an opportunity for coffee and conversation.
Eric was predeceased by his parents, his wife, Marilyn, in 2023, their son, Bernie, in 1998, their grandson, Christian, in 2024, and his brother, Glen, in 2021. He is lovingly remembered by his son, Mike; his grandchildren, Candise (Ryan) and their daughter, Brynnley; Chad; and Christian's (Nikkita) children: Nahla, Austin, and Ryker. He is also remembered by his sister, Rose Marie (Martin), his brother, Richard (Susan), and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
A celebration of Eric's life will take place at a later date. Donations in Eric's memory may be directed to the Outlook and District Health Foundation - Long Term Care (Box 427, Outlook, SK S0L 2N0). To share memories, express condolences, or find additional details, please visit outlookfuneralchapel.com.