Donald R. Johnson, 78, of Deary, passed away unexpectedly Monday, Jan. 15, 2024. He was born July 7, 1945, in Moscow. Don lived his entire life on the family homestead, embracing the old-school country lifestyle that he held dear.
Don attended Deary High School, class of 1963, and later pursued higher education at Spokane Community College. Don worked briefly for Boeing and Potlatch Corp.; however, his true passion was farming. With hands calloused by hard work, he dedicated his life to being a farmer and a jack-of-all-trades. He found joy in working the land and was known for his creative problem-solving abilities. In his younger years, Don had a passion for flying and enjoyed taking to the skies.
Outside of his work, Don cherished morning coffee sessions with his friends. He also found enjoyment in trapshooting, hunting and tending his cattle. Family was at the center of his world. He always attended to his children’s and grandchildren’s endeavors, standing proud on the sidelines.
Don is survived by his wife, Julie A. Johnson, and their children: Elisa Johnson, Chris Johnson (Brigette), Janelle Swanson (Bryan) and Gena Perez (Drew). He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren: Kayla, Cody, Dylan, Brayden, Sarah and Brooklyn. Don is also survived by his brother, Douglas Johnson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Virginia and Archie, and his brothers, Willis and Kenneth.
A service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 26, at the Deary Community Bible Church with a potluck following at the Deary Community Center. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Don’s memory to Deary High School (DHS) Booster Club.
