Donald "Don" James Johnson

Donald “Don” James Johnson, age 82 of Wautoma passed away on Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at Thedacare Regional Medical Center, Appleton. He was born on June 4, 1943 in Milwaukee to Kenneth and Bernice (Schaefer) Johnson. After high school he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp, serving with the 1st Marine Division during the Cuban Missile Crisis and was honorably discharged in 1964. He married Barbara Marie Killian in South Milwaukee on October 21, 1967 and was happily married for 57 years.

Don earned his engineering degree from MSOE and worked for many years as a Manufacturing Engineer until retiring and moving to Wautoma. Don enjoyed spending time with his family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Don had a rare gift - the ability to make others laugh with ease. Whether through a clever joke or a mischievous grin, his humor brought joy to everyone he met.

A man of many passions, Don enjoyed being an active member of many clubs: Model A, Convertible and Snowbird in addition to Catholic Knights where he formed lifelong friendships and created countless memories. Beyond his hobbies, Don had a heart for service. He volunteered for various organizations in Wautoma, always ready to lend a hand or a smile wherever it was needed. His dedication to his community was matched only by the kindness he showed to everyone he encountered. Don will be remembered not only for his sense of humor and his love of life, but also for the warmth and generosity that defined his character. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, friendship, and service that will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Don is survived by his loving wife: Barbara Johnson; children: Mike (Leasha) Johnson, Scott (Angela) Johnson, Jill (Henry) Watzka; grandchildren: Hannah (Austin), Paige, Aubrey, Braelyn, Annika, Connor (Morgan), Breana, Tianna, Jennifer (Tim), Stephanie; great grandchildren: Kailee, Lylah, Liam, Rhett, Milo, Gibson; sisters: Jane (Brad) Vogl, Nancy (Ric) Montpas, Laurie (Paul) Wittwer, Denise (Jim) Tomasek, Kay (Doug) Baumgartner; brothers: Greg (Laurie) Johnson, Jay (Laura) Johnson; sister-in-law: Diane Johnson; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant brother: Gary; brothers: Wayne, Larry, Joel and infant grandson: Jordan.

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11AM on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Wautoma followed by full Military Honors. The family will greet relatives and friends at church on Wednesday from 10AM until the time of Mass at 11AM. Private burial will take place at a later date at Arlington Cemetery, Milwaukee.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) in memory of Donald James Johnson.