David N. 'Birdie' Johnson, 26 Feb 1939 - 25 Oct 2022

JOHNSON, MONROE, RUSK, MARION, FISHER, KAHLER

Posted By: Sarah Witte (email)
Date: 11/4/2022 at 14:02:46

David “Birdie” N. Johnson, 83 of Belle Plaine, Iowa passed away Tuesday, October 25, 2022 at Belle Plaine Specialty Care, Belle Plaine from complications of COPD.

Birdie was born February 26, 1939 the son of Raleigh and Jeanette (Monroe) Johnson. He met the love of his life while in the first grade, Sharon Jane Rusk; who he told his mother, he was going to marry. Birdie graduated from Belle Plaine High School with the class of 1957. On November 30, 1957, Birdie married Sharon. To this union they had two sons, Doug and Drew.

Following school Birdie worked for his father at Raleigh Johnson Motors in Belle Plaine; which he became a partner with his brother Dean. In 1984 Birdie purchased Marengo Motors which he operated for many years until he sold and retired. Following retirement Birdie continued to work part-time for Thys Automotive, Belle Plaine.

Birdie enjoyed golfing and his outings to Arizona, spending time outdoors proudly taking care of his yard. He was an avid sports fan, whether on TV or attending in person, Birdie enjoyed watching Iowa, Iowa State and UNI, but above all, he loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. Birdie valued friendship and liked to socialize, always looking forward to the class of 1957 get-togethers.

Birdie was a member of the Belle Plaine Fire Department, Christ United Methodist Church, Masonic Lodge, Belle Plaine Country Club, Marengo Kiwanis, and Rotary.

Birdie is survived by his sons, Doug (Janet) Johnson of Belle Plaine, Drew (Susie) Johnson of Belle Plaine; grandchildren, Abbie (Matt) Marion, Lindsey (Tyler) Fisher, Tyler (Jolene) Johnson; great grandchildren, Owen, Ella, Eli, Monroe, Asa, Isla, Charlie, Willa, Alivia and one grand-dog Max; brother, Dean (Mardell) Johnson; sister-in-law, Norrine (Lonnie) Kahler; and many beloved family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Sharon Johnson (2009).

The family would like to give a special thank you to Belle Plaine Specialty Care, and Essence of Life Hospice for all their care.

Service is 10:00 a.m. Friday, October 28, 2022 at Christ United Methodist Church in Belle Plaine with Pastor Derek Okine officiating. Burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery, Belle Plaine, IA.

Visitation will take place 4-7 p.m. Thursday, October 27th at Hrabak-Neuhaus Funeral Service. Memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.neuhausfuneralservice.com.

Published in The Gazette on October 27, 2022 and in The Hometown Current on November 2, 2022.