EARL JOHNSON

Wayne "Cookie" Johnson, of Neenah, age 81, passed away surrounded by his family on Thursday, June 19, 2014. He was born August 12, 1932 in Neenah, son of the late Helmer and Bernice (Seelow) Johnson. Wayne married Jacqueline Miller and she preceded him death in 1993. He married Elsie Helein and she preceded him in death on August 5, 2011. Wayne served in the US Navy during the Korean War. He was stationed on the USS Coral Sea and USS Oriskany. After his Navy tour, he returned to Neenah and worked as a millwright for Bergstrom Paper Co. and Kimberly-Clark. Wayne and Elsie moved to Elderon in 1984 and purchased Wayne and Elsie's Bar, returning to Neenah in 2004. Wayne was involved with many organizations, his most passionate organizations were: Trees for Tomorrow and Suburban Athletics. He was one of first coaches and worked side by side with the developers, building Suburban Athletics to what it is today. In retirement, he became a World Class Hickory Nut cracker. Survivors include his children: Ronald Johnson (special friend Kay), Diane Johnson, Susan (Peter) Guckenberg, Daniel (Peggy) Johnson, Vicky (Jeff) Reffke, Gail (Jeff) Huss, Leo (Sue) Johnson; 15 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Janet Miller; and a brother, Helmer (Samantha) Johnson. Wayne was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Tracy Huss; a brother, Folger; and two sisters: Jalaine and June and his beloved dog Charmin. A memorial service will be held at 11:30 AM on Monday, June 23, 2014, at Neenah's Westgor Funeral Home. The visitation will be held from 9:30 AM until the hour of service. In lieu of flowers a memorial is being established in his name. The family sends a special thank-you to the Theda Clark 2 South Staff for the care they provided to Dad and to the family.