Donovan Dale Johnson

Johnson, Donovan D. BROOKLYN -Donovan Johnson Sr., passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 14, 2015.  At the time of his passing, Don was surrounded by loved ones in his home at the family farm in Brooklyn, Wis.  He was a true family man who spent his life instilling strong values and work ethic into his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  Don fought several heart related battles over the last 46 years of his life, each time prevailing to fight again.  After 88 wonderful years, Don decided it was time to move on and he departed on his own terms leaving a legacy of family and friends.  Don was a very quiet gentle soul who never complained.  Don was born to Matthew and Mabel (Wee) Johnson on Nov. 22, 1926.  He married Ann Doyle on April 27, 1957.  He was an accomplished baseball player and bowler.  He played several successful years in the local Home Talent League, leaving his mark on the league as both a pitcher and a hitter.  Even though Don enjoyed farming, playing cards, and in his later years, playing the slots, what he loved most was spending precious time with his family.  As his family grew and expanded, he could frequently be seen taking scenic drives around the country checking in on his children and their families.  Regardless of where his travels led, his path always led back to the family farm where his heart and soul will always be present.  Don is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Ann; children, Bernie (Kevin) Stuntebeck, Dan (Cherrie) Johnson, Dale (Jodi) Johnson, Colleen (Clay) Christenson, Deron (Misty) Johnson, David (Amy) Johnson, Tami (Dan) Scott and Donovan (Sarah) Johnson Jr.; 21 grandchildren, Andrea, Tyler, Jordana, Ben, Kelly, Alex, Charles, Joseph, Lucas, Cassy, Cole, Darien, Dalton, Alexis, Jacob, Derek, Megan, Brody, Ashley, Donovan III, and Anna; five great-grandchildren, Keaton, Grayson, Elliot, Madison and Paige.  Additionally, he is survived by many other cherished extended family members and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents and 11 siblings.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2015, at 11 a.m. at HOLY MOTHER OF CONSOLATION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 651 N. Main St., Oregon, with Father Gary Wankerl presiding.  A visitation will be held on Monday, May 18, 2015, at GUNDERSON OREGON FUNERAL HOME from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m.  Burial will be held in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery, Oregon.   "Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal" - Irish headstone.  Loving you from afar, until we meet again.  Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.Gunderson OregonFuneral & Cremation Care1150 Park Street(608)835-3515