Johnson, Lee, Dr. 1950-2011

JOHNSON, FOX, KANONI, GUSTAFSON, ROUSE

Posted By: Jill McCarville (email)
Date: 7/22/2013 at 16:46:06

Dr. Lee Johnson, 61

Reinbeck- A memorial service for Dr. Lee E. Johnson of Reinbeck will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 19, 2011 at the UCC Church in Reinbeck.

Dr. Lee, 61, died Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2011 after a three year battle with Early-Onset Dementia and ALS.

Dr. Lee Elmer Johnson was born Nov. 18, 1950, in Cresco, the son of George and Mary Johnson. He was raised on a farm. Lee became a wrestler at a young age and, by the end of high school, was a two time champion. His wrestling talents rewarded him with a full scholarship to Iowa State University where he wrestled with his heroes, Dan Gable and Tom Peckham. He studied to become a large and small animal veterinarian. After graduating in 1976, Lee moved to Hudson, Iowa and joined the Hudson Veterinary Clinic. He later expanded the practice to include the Reinbeck Veterinary Clinic.

Lee married Lucinda Fox of Waterloo in 1977 and they had three children. He practiced veterinary medicine for 34 years before retiring in 2009.

Dr. Johnson enjoyed golfing and always looked forward to his annual deer hunting trips. He was known for his happy and outgoing personality and a laugh that could light up a room.

He is survived by his children: Jared, Janee, and Brianne Johnson; grandchildren: Kanzah and Qais Kanoni; and his sisters: Connie Gustafson, JoAnn Johnson and Joyce Rouse.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother: Judd Johnson.

Memorials may be made to ALS Foundation.

Times Plain Dealer December 7, 2011 Page A18
Transcribed by Jill McCarville from the files of Janice Sowers