Art D. Johnsen

Arthur D. Johnsen, 54, of Thompson, passed away on April 15th, 2009 at 8:30pm at home with family. Art Johnsen was born in Maddock, ND, the son of Osten and Esther Johnsen on July 30th, 1954. He graduated from Oberon High School and attended North Dakota State School of Science to study and learn to be an Electrician. While attending school he met Deborah Larson. They were married on August 4th 1978, in Jamestown, ND. Art started his career as an Electrician for James Valley Rural Electric in Edgeley, ND. He enjoyed working with the rural communities and the people. In 1980 Art became an employee of Nodak Rural Electric, known now as Nodak Electric in Grand Forks, ND. He worked there with many fine people and learned to know the backroads, farms and communities of the Nodak territory. His favorite part was meeting so many great rural folks in the area. He worked many stormy nights with his co-workers to help restore electricity for Nodak members. Art was a Board member for the Grand Forks Trail Rural Water Association. He enjoyed working with the board and appreciated being a part of such an excellent Rural Water system that promoted safe, and good quality drinking water for the rural area. His family and his love for the Heavenly Father was foremost. He desired to live his life in such a way to honor the Lord. He was a member of Faith Evangelical Free church, past member of Holmes Methodist Church, past board member of Child Evangelism Fellowship - NE Chapter, past board member of Greater Grand Forks Area - Youth for Christ, and an enthusiastic member of the " E Free Riders" Motorcycle Group ! His pride and joy were his 3 sons. He watched them grow day to day, praying for them and encouraging them to grow up to be men that would honor the Lord, love their family, and value hard work. Their hunting expeditions were a highlight, and they enjoyed trap shooting together. Arthur is survived by his wife Deborah and three sons : Aaron 26, Colorado Springs, Co, Evan 20, Thompson and Jordan 17, at home. He was preceded in death by his father, two uncles, an aunt, and a cousin. FUNERAL SERVICES: 4:00p.m., Monday, April 20, 2009, at Faith Evangelical Free Church 1400 24th Ave. S. in Grand Forks. Visitation & Viewing: Sunday, April 19, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Amundson Funeral Home 2975 S. 42nd St. Grand Forks, ND, and one hour prior to the Funeral Service.