David Elroy Johnson

DAVID ELROY JOHNSON was born to Clifford Joseph and Hannah Oline (Sabie) Johnson on September 27, 1933 on the family farm in Eden Township of Pipestone County, Minnesota where he was raised. He attended school in Ihlen, Minnesota through the eighth grade and then high school in Pipestone, Minnesota. After his graduation from Pipestone High School in 1951, he enlisted in the Air Force on April 8, 1952. Throughout his military career, he served as a Master Sergeant Radar Technician in numerous areas including Guam, Alaska, Michigan, Washington State, Niagara Falls, Ascension Island, Maine, Mississippi, New Mexico, Virginia and Vermont. Following his discharge from the service in May, 1975, he returned to Eden Township to help his brother farm. On Wednesday, June 8, he suffered a severe stroke at his farm and was taken to the Pipestone County Medical Center. On Friday, June 10, he was admitted to the Pipestone County Hospice House where he died peacefully on Thursday, June 16, 2016, at the age of 82 years, eight months, and 19 days.

David was baptized and confirmed at the Zion Lutheran Church in Ihlen. He enjoyed watching television, especially the History Channel. He never missed Jeopardy and most of the time he knew the right answer. His mind retained details and when he couldn’t sleep at night he would recite the names of all our country’s presidents and vice presidents and the dates they served.

He is lovingly remembered by his three siblings, Richard (Florence) Johnson of Rochester, Minnesota, James (Maxine) Johnson of Jasper, Minnesota, and Betty (Marlin) Smith of Raymore, Missouri; several nieces and nephews; and many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; and an infant sister.