After being married for 68 years, Minnesota sweethearts died a day apart –a testament, their kids say, to their independence and devotion to each other. Robert and Corinne Johnson had moved to a farm in Norseland, Minnesota, two years after they wed as teens–where they raised their children and lived independently for 67 years.<\/p>\n\n
They grew up within the same 3-mile radius that they raised their children and farm animals. Both were devoted to their children and their communities. The couple traveled thousands of miles across Minnesota to attend their seven children's sporting events. They were also active in their local church.<\/p>\n\n
Robert was diagnosed with cancer, and Corrine later suffered congestive heart failure. She died Nov. 24 at 87; he died Nov. 25 at 88. Corinne's death left Robert distraught. Their son Bruce Johnson, a cancer doctor, told reporters, “I sort of thought he looked like he could go for weeks. (But) as soon as mom died, he went downhill and died in a day. It's hard to imagine it's a coincidence.” Corinne's obituary reads, "It seems only fitting that they would both pass into eternal life together, surrounded by those who loved them.”<\/p>\n\n