RUSSELL JOHNSON

Russell G Johnson, age 58, passed peacefully in his home on November 3, 2018.

Russ was born on June 29,1960 in Milwaukee, Wi to Ronald G and Jane Johnson (Hayes).

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Irvin and Clara Hayes and Stanley and Eloise Johnson.  Also, his mother who he dearly loved and missed, Jane Johnson (Hayes).

Russ will be loving remembered and greatly missed by his father, Ronald G Johnson, sister's Linda Johnson and Louise Weinberg (Larry), his brother Douglas Johnson (Michelle).  One niece, Raizel Weinberg and nephews Aaron Weinberg and Seth Johnson.  His wife, Laureen Johnson (Pingel) and a  stepson Ryan Plank.                                                                                                                                       

Russ was never afraid of hard work and for over 25 years worked for Teel Plastics and lived in Baraboo WI.  Spending the majority of his weekends on Lake Poygan near Larsen WI, where  his family still has a cottage.  Hunting and fishing were two things Russ enjoyed the most.  Duck hunting, deer hunting, pheasants, rabbits and during his last years of hunting loved to do turkey hunting the most.  In all these activities he appreciated the oneness with nature and tranquil quiet.  Especially the darkness before dawn.  Russ loved to watch the sun come up and nature come to life.                                                     

A favorite yearly event of Russ' was going to Montello for a 3 day gathering at the home of Leroy (Biter) and Cindy Lippig.  He became a family friend.  Watching their children, Shelly and Michael, grow into fine adults.  Several years ago, I began attending this event, being given the coveted ‘honeymoon suite' to retire in.  In thinking of these times a line from John Denver comes to mind “lying by the fire, watch the evening tire, all my friends and my old lady sit and pass the pipe around”.  Peaceful, treasured moments.

Yearly Muskie fishing trips in October to Boulder Junction was another highlight and Russ greatly missed the ability to go fishing with the guys for one last time.                                                                                                            

Russ was a friend of many and disliked but a few.  You knew which side of the fence you were on.  He was a man of extraordinary humor and wit.  It was always a joy to be in his company.  He was also of man in intellect, of which he was never given enough credit.

I often asked Russ why he was single?  He simply stated he was waiting for a woman like me.  My luck I have never taken for granted.  During the course of our time together, we saved each other.  He pulled me from depression, helped me raise a son, provided me with a safe harbor to be myself and flourish. 

Together we travelled the road of cancer.  During this journey, Russ and I learned many life lessons.  Special thanks to Susan, Kristen, Kari and Linda for your guidance and the selfless sharing of your gifts.  Thanks to these wonderful women, Russ was at peace at his passing and had no fear.  He is now with his mom, who he dearly missed these past 30+ years.  Be happy for him that he is free to move with ease and without pain.  I am only beginning to realize how much he kept his pain and frustration under wraps.  I feel I only saw the tip of the iceberg.

Thank you, Russell, my comfort and care has always been your upper most concern, in life and in your death.  This you accomplished by surrounding with loves who loved you and who in turn will love and care for me.

Russ was not a fan of funerals but agreed to a Celebration of Life – date, time and place to be determined.

Many thanks to the staff of Canter Treatment Centers of America – Chicago, especially the team of Dr Evan Pisick MD., and the nurses and aides of Aurora Hospice and quick response from AdvaCare.