The Minnesota craft beer community is mourning the sudden loss of Cooper Johnson, the beloved owner of Bricksworth Beer Co. and a key figure behind BlackStack Brewing. Johnson passed away on June 19, 2026, according to an announcement shared by Bricksworth Beer on social media.
The brewery described the loss with deep sorrow, saying Johnson died peacefully and was surrounded by family and close friends.
He leaves behind his partner, Franny, and their son, Arthur, along with countless friends, colleagues, and community members whose lives he touched through his work and personal relationships.
Bricksworth Beer shared that Johnson’s family and friends will continue to honor his memory through the stories that reflect his unique approach to life. Plans for a public celebration of his life are expected to be announced at a later date.
A Leader Who Built More Than a Business
Johnson was widely respected throughout Minnesota’s brewing industry, where he helped create not only successful businesses but also meaningful connections among employees, customers, and fellow brewery owners.
Following the announcement of his death, an outpouring of tributes flooded social media from breweries, staff members, and community supporters. Many remembered him as a generous leader whose influence extended far beyond the walls of his businesses.
Modist Brewing expressed heartbreak over the news and offered condolences to the Johnson family as well as the BlackStack and Bricksworth teams. Junkyard Brewing also shared its grief, saying words could not fully express the feeling of such a significant loss.
Insight Brewing sent messages of support to Johnson’s family and colleagues, while numerous former employees and customers reflected on the welcoming culture he helped create.
One tribute noted that Johnson had built one of the strongest communities around Bricksworth and had positively changed the lives of many people. Others described the brewery family he cultivated as a source of friendship, belonging, and support.
The comments revealed a consistent picture of a leader who valued people first and who made those around him feel appreciated and included.
Lasting Impact on Family, Friends, and Youth
Beyond his work in the brewing industry, Johnson was remembered for his personal character and dedication to those around him.
One particularly moving tribute came from a parent whose son had selected Johnson as the subject of a middle school essay about someone who made a positive impact on his life. According to the comment, Johnson had served as the boy’s soccer coach and surprised him by attending school when the essay was presented to the class.
The story highlighted the kind of person many say Johnson was. He consistently showed up for others, whether through mentorship, friendship, coaching, or community involvement.
Former colleagues, brewery patrons, and friends shared messages of love and support for the Johnson family, emphasizing the deep relationships he formed throughout his life.
Many described themselves as shocked by the news and expressed gratitude for the memories they shared with him.
As the Minnesota brewing community continues to process the loss, tributes continue to arrive from across the region.
While Johnson’s sudden passing has left a profound void, those who knew him say his influence will endure through the businesses he helped build, the community he strengthened, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched.
For many, Cooper Johnson will be remembered not only as a successful brewery owner but as a compassionate mentor, devoted family man, and friend whose impact reached far beyond the craft beer industry.
