Edwin W. Johnson, 88, passed away on Jan. 29, 2021 at King Veteran’s Home. Edwin was born Feb. 12, 1932, the son of George and Mabel Johnson in Ogema, Wis. He grew up in Ogema. He started driving log trucks and learning skills that would become his life’s occupation of a Mechanic.
During this time, he met his wife-to-be, Kathleen Turgeon, of Tomahawk. They became engaged before Ed was drafted. He proudly served our country in the United States Army from Dec. 1952 until Sept. 1954, serving in the Korean War. Upon return, he and Kay got married and moved to Merrill, which became their home. Ed worked for Lindquist’s Garage before he started his own business, Ed’s Shell Service, in downtown Merrill. Eventually his son, Robert Johnson, would join Ed as a mechanic, and they would rename the business to Johnson Sales and Service.
Ed was a hard worker, but took time to enjoy family as well. He enjoyed his place up North, where he spent time fishing and playing accordion with his Dad. His love of fishing up North was passed on to his grandchildren. Ed also took great pride in having a clean shop and manicured lawn.
Later in life, Ed and his wife moved to King Veteran’s Home, where they enjoyed many wonderful activities. Fishing trips, boat rides, ice cream socials, car shows and live music in the park of King’s beautiful campus are just a few things that kept him busy and happy.
Ed is survived by his wife, Kathleen (Turgeon); daughters Barbara (Mike) Ziemke and Mary (Chris) Frisch; grandchildren Mitchell (Emily) Ziemke, Colton and Lacey Frisch, and Lindsey Johnson; great-grandchildren David Ziemke; additional step-grandchildren Michelle Brown and Mindy Meehean. Ed is also survived by his two sisters, Geraldine Ulrich and Marilyn Meyer; a brother, Emil Johnson; and many nieces and nephews.
Ed was preceded in death by his son, Robert Johnson; mother and father, Mabel and George Johnson; and a brother, Alan Johnson.
Private family services will be held at Central Wisconsin Veterans Cemetery in King on Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2021 at 10 a.m.
John J. Buettgen Funeral Home is assisting family at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HonorOne.com.