Eldin L.R. Johnson is a dedicated contributor to the DSU Heritage Foundation (DSU HF). Born in Williston, North Dakota in 1936, he grew up on a ranch near Watford City and attended a one-room grade school. In 1955, Johnson graduated with high honors from Watford City High School.
A Life of Hard Work and Exploration
After high school, Johnson pursued farming and, in 1957, purchased a 25-acre farm in Fairview, North Dakota. He expanded his operation to include various crops and livestock, using his business skills to buy used equipment and supplementing his income by working in the oil fields. He invested in oil minerals, and in 1980 he purchased a Hawk XP2 airplane to assist in managing his sheep herds.
Johnson and his late wife, Marilyn, were avid travelers. Marilyn owned a travel agency (World Travel Service) in Sidney, Montana. Together, the couple visited countries such as Brazil, Australia, China, and Costa Rica, embracing the importance of global understanding and education. Marilyn was able to convince her husband to travel with her in the winter months. Due to the demands of irrigated farming, he was unable to travel during the summer. Their shared passion for exploration highlights a commitment to learning and discovery.
DSU HF Executive Director Ty Orton shared his admiration for Johnson: “Eldin is one of those donors whose story captivates and inspires. He truly cares about education and making a difference for the next generation. We are lucky to call him a member of the DSU family.”
Johnson currently lives at Hawk’s Point. Reflecting on his life experiences, he stated, "I realized during my travels that if you have excess money, you should use it to help disadvantaged students get an education." He added, "A lift along the way can help students so that they can focus more on their studies and not have to be as concerned about money while going to college."
A Strong Connection to DSU
Johnson’s relationship with Dickinson State University (DSU) began when he recognized the university’s pivotal role in enriching the community and shaping the lives of young people. Through the Eldin L.R. Johnson Land & Livestock Endowed Scholarship, Johnson will continue to make an impact on countless students’ lives. His endowment plaque is proudly displayed in the DSU Student Center as a testament to his enduring commitment to the power of education to transform lives.
_________
By: Debora Dragseth, Baker Boy Professor of Leadership | School of Business and Entrepreneurship Dickinson State University
Comments