Donald E. Johnson
November 11, 1927 - February 17, 2022
Obituary
MADISON - Donald E. Johnson, age 94, of Madison, passed peacefully at home with family by his side, on Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022, from non-covid pneumonia. He was born on Nov. 11, 1927, in Madison, the son of Edwin and Gertrude (Kracht) Johnson.
Don graduated from Madison East High School in 1946 and received a degree from Madison Business College. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II with a post-war deployment to Japan. Don was united in marriage to Geraldine Mickleson on Oct. 22, 1949, at Burke Lutheran Church.
Don worked as a structural steel estimator for Kupfer Ironworks and Zalk Josephs Fabricators, retiring in 1991. He was known to be a steadfast employee, who was “never” late- a character trait passed on and appreciated by his family along with many other valuable life lessons. He was a member of the Madison Elks Club and a former president of the Eastside Club.
Don treasured his four children, and nine grandchildren- nothing meant more to him than their gatherings at the Johnson Family Retreat in northern Wisconsin. Don also loved and greatly appreciated his friends- he had a special gift of connecting with others. He was an extraordinary human being.
Don loved to travel and when he stepped on the dance floor the crowds parted. Following the death of his beloved wife, Geraldine (55 years), he was blessed with a companionship and a willing dance partner in Donna Hellenbrand.
Don is survived by his children, Linda (John Ferrick) Johnson and their children, Jordan and Jackson; Nancy Jo (Robert Pfitzenmeier) Johnson and their children, Lhakdon and Norden; Connie (Myron Buller) Johnson and their children, Cole and Angie; and Scott (Lisa) Johnson and their children, Madeline, Mitchell and Melia. He was preceded in death by his wife, Geraldine; son, David Johnson; parents; and two sisters, Pharel Havey and Phyllis Larson.
A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2022, with the Rev. Jeff Vanden Huevel presiding. Family and friends who wish to view services via LIVE STREAM may visit Donald’s obituary page at www.gundersonfh.com at 6 p.m. on Tuesday. Burial will be held at Roselawn Memorial Park at a later date. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 4 p.m. until the time of the service on Tuesday. Face masks will be required.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be gifted in Donald’s name to Agrace HospiceCare: www.agrace.org/donate/donate-today or to the Goodman Community Center: www.goodmancenter.org/donate. The family wishes to thank the staff on 5th floor at SSM Health, and Agrace HospiceCare for all of their wonderful care and support given to Don and his family. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420