Obituary: Donald K. Johnson

MADISON - Donald K. Johnson, age 77 of Madison, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Friday, Aug. 28, 2009 at Meriter Hospital. He was born on July 27, 1932 in Madison, the son of Charles and Lillian Schleger. He married Lorraine Kittilson on March 12, 1960 in Sparta at Trinity Lutheran Church. Donald graduated from Central High School. After graduation, he worked for Benike and Culver Auto Parts and was then drafted into the military to serve in the Korean War. Donald was very proud to have served in the U.S. Army during the war. After the war, Donald continued his work at Benike and Culver, retiring in 1977. Donald coached all of his children, and many neighborhood children, in T-ball and baseball. He was a member of the VFW Post No. 7591 and a member of Messiah Lutheran Church. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Lorraine; five sons, David (Julie), Daniel (Jackie), Rick, Tom, and Steve; eight grandchildren, Stacy (Tim), Matt (Alice), Joe, Nathan, Casey, Nick, Justin, and Ashlyn; daughter-in-law, Kelly Johnson He was preceded in death by his daughter, Kathleen. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2009. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2009 and from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Wednesday. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Arthritis Foundation, Wisconsin Chapter, 802 Broadway No. 206, Monona, WI 53713. "He was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. He will be sadly missed." Gunderson East Funeral and Cremation Centers 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on August 30, 2009