Donald J. Johnson, 95, of La Crosse, died peacefully on Monday, September 25, 2017, at the Hillview Health Care Center. He was born on June 10, 1922, in Mabel, Minn., to Oscar and Jeva (Ladsten) Johnson. At age 10, his family moved to Lanesboro, where he attended Durkin County School. Don married his true love, Rita (Sexton-Henriksen) on May 4, 1968, in La Crosse, where they made their home and he became a loving and supportive stepfather to Rita’s three sons.
Don retired after 38 years of service at Trane Company. After retirement, he drove cars for various dealerships. Throughout his life he enjoyed travelling to many places such as Mexico, Hawaii, Alaska, Canada and all across the states. He loved all things cars and attended many Nascar races and followed the sport religiously.
Don is survived by his wife Rita, two stepsons, Lee (Debbie) Henriksen and Steve (Tracy) Henriksen, daughter-in-law Kathy Henriksen, seven grandchildren: Matt (Renata), Cara, Kayla, Sam, Alex, Erik, and Katie Henriksen, great-grandson Nicolaus, a sister Eleanor Davidson of Rushford, Minn., nephews Gary (Sharon), Jeff (Louane) and Nathan (Denise) Davidson, and a niece, Heidi (Randy) Omodth. He was preceded in death by his parents, twin brother Ronald, stepson Greg Henriksen, and his special dog, Tapper.
Don was a kind, gentle, supportive and caring husband, stepfather, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and uncle. Not a night went by without a kiss and, “I love you” to his loving wife.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, September 28, 2017, at 11 a.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church. Pastor Joanne S. Richmond will officiate. Entombment will follow in the Catholic cemetery. Friends may call at the church on Thursday from 10 a.m. until the time of services. Memorials may be given to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church.
Don’s family would like to thank all the staff from Hillview Health Care Center for their compassion and excellent care.