"It was my great priviledge to work with "Johnny" Johnson during many of his 62 years at Berkley. I have a saying, which is "The example you set for others in the way you live your life is more important than any fame and honors you may receive." I know of no one that has set a better example of how one shoul live his or her life than my friend and former fellow Berkley worker "Johnny Johnson".--Berkley Bedell"
In loving memory of
Laurel "Johnny" Johnson
February 8, 1924 - July 21, 2012
Laurel F. Johnson, age 88, of Arnolds Park, passed away Saturday, July 21, 2012, at the Avera Heart Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. He was born on February 8, 1924, in Gowrie, Iowa, to Reuben and Vernie (Carlson) Johnson.
Laurel graduated from Gowrie High School in 1942. He served his country in the United States Navy. Laurel was united in marriage to Kathlyn Moore on July 4, 1944, in Kanawha, Iowa. She passed away on February 3, 2012.
Laurel worked for Pure Fishing for 62 years in Spirit Lake. He really didn't consider it work. He truly enjoyed being around all of his co-workers. Laurel took great pride in fixing things. He enjoyed spending his free time woodworking and carving.
Laurel is survived by his two children, Lynn Johnson of Arnolds Park, and Stephen Johnson of Lake Crystal, Minnesota; four grandchildren; and a sister, Darlene Eklund of Gowrie. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; and a sister, Marie Dettman.
A memorial service will be held at 10:30A.M. Wednesday, August 1, 2012, at the United Methodist Church in Spirit Lake.
The Schuchert Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Tributes
"My memory of Johnny was every afternoon when he got off work, he would come to visit his true love Kathy, and always had a smile on his face. You will truley be missed! You and Kathy are together again."
"You could always count on Johnny to be at work. He was always there. Never late. A very smart man and very dedicated to Berkley/Pure Fishing. He loved to visit with his co-workers. Best electican that Pure Fishing had. He will be missrd very much."
"My sincerest condolences on your loss of a truly great man. I had the pleasure of working with "Johnny" for many years at Berkley, and he was an absolute genius. More than that, he was the kindest, most gentle soul I think I have ever met. He will be truly missed."
"To The Family, Please accept our deepest condolence for the loss of your dear love one. John 5:28, 29 and Acts 24:15 assures us that those who have fallen asleep in death have the wonderful hope to live again. Also take comfort in Revelation 21:3 & 4, where at that time SICKNESS, PAIN, DEATH, MOURNING, and OUTCRY will be things of the past. Please take comfort in these encouraging promises."