Duane Merlin Johnson, age 83, of Ellsworth, died Sunday, March 22, 2015 at the Ellsworth Care Center.
Duane was born on February 8, 1932 in Ellsworth, the son of Clark M. and Mabel (Gregerson) Johnson.
He married Marion Buss on May 17, 1952 in Red Wing, MN. Together they made their home in Ellsworth where they raised their daughters, Cindy and Denise.
Preceding him in death were his parents, brother Arvid and sister Shirley Gilbertson.
Duane is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Marion.
Daughters: Cindy (Dennis) Baird and Denise (Dan) Hager.
Grandchildren: Tanya and Darrin (Lindsay) Christopherson, Cody Baird, Jackson (Katie) Hager, and Danielle (Joe) Goodier.
Great-grandchildren: Ty, Paris, Nora and Kaia Christopherson, and Wyatt Goodier.
Brother: Dennis (Jan) Johnson.
He is further survived by nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.
Duane worked hard making a living and building his business, Johnson Sanitation Inc. established in 1973. In 1999, Duane retired and sold Johnson Sanitation Inc. to his daughter Denise and son-in-law Dan Hager. He was also an active member of the US Army during the Korean War. After returning, Duane worked for Hines Transfer for 30 years.
Duane was involved with many local clubs and organizations including:
American Legion – 50 years
River Falls Moose Lodge – over 50 years
Rush River Snowmobile Club – lifetime member
Ellsworth Rod and Gun Club – lifetime member
Ellsworth Lion’s Club – 15 years
Ellsworth Commercial Club – 20 years
40 et 8 – 20 years
He was a life-long member of English Lutheran Church, Ellsworth, WI.
During retirement Duane and Marion enjoyed traveling to Arizona annually for 25 years along with many other vacation destinations.
Funeral services for Duane will be at 11:00am, Friday, March 27, 2015 at English Lutheran Church, Ellsworth, WI. Burial will be in the Maple Grove Cemetery, Ellsworth, WI.
Visitation will be from 4-7pm on Thursday, at English Lutheran Church, Ellsworth, and for one hour prior to the funeral on Friday.
In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to the American Parkinsons Association at www.apdaparkinson.org or Wisconsin Parkinson Association, 945 N. 12th Street, Suite 4602, Milwaukee, WI 53233.
Hill Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Ellsworth, WI is serving the family.