John Howard Johnson

John Howard Johnson, 68, of McFarland, died Sunday, Dec. 8, 2013 at Agrace Hospice Center with his daughters at his side. He was born on Dec. 9, 1944, the youngest of five children born to Irwin and Iola Johnson, of Black River Falls, Wis. John was raised to appreciate music, and singing was a part of his childhood with his family on the farm. A 1963 graduate of Black River High School, he placed high value on being a part of the band and belonging to a community group that enriches life experiences and allows for travel. John loved reconnecting with classmates, relatives and former contacts. John graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 1969, and then worked in careers devoted to serving people. Customer service was not his job, but his way of life. He worked first for Kroger and Red Owl food stores, and later, for more than 20 years, worked for the Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles in many different communities. His positivity was pervasive, and he brightened the lives of customers, colleagues, friends and family. John gratefully cherished his many gifts of life; forefront that he was blessed to receive a life-saving organ transplant at the University of Wisconsin Hospital in Madison. As a loving father and grandfather, John loved to bring cheer to others with a note of cheer or comfort, a gentle pat on the back or just being there for you. He enjoyed taking people to places of art, entertainment or historical prominence. His enthusiasm was contagious. John took great pride in keeping his home and property, and enjoyed baking. He is survived by his daughters, Sara (Paul) Wait and their children Brooke and Lilly, of Washington, Ill., Susan (Dean) Bowden and their daughter Kendra of Dale, Wis., and Patricia Neumann and her children Daniel and Mariah of DePere, Wis.; brother Don (Sharon) Johnson of Black River Falls, Wis.; sisters Margie DuBois of Onlaska, Wis., Janet (Milt) Loeschmann of Waukesha, Wis., and Carol (Phil) Cler of Jackson, Wis.; cherished nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his parents, Irwin and Iola Johnson; his son, Dean Johnson; a son-in-law, Randy Neumann; and his grandson, Randall Neumann. All Faiths Funeral & Cremation Service of Madison www.866allfaiths.com is assisting the family. A memorial service to honor John's life is set for Saturday, December 14. Visitation begins at 12:00pm with a 1:30pm service will follow at Appleton Highland Memorial Park Chapel, 3131 North Richmond Street, Appleton, Wis. The family would like to thank the excellent care providers at the University of Wisconsin Hospital, St. Mary’s Hospital and Agrace Hospice Center.