GARY D. JOHNSON

 

 Gary D. Johnson, 77 of Tampico died Thursday May 31, 2018 at Rock River Hospice and Home in Sterling.

 

He was born on October 27, 1940 in Sterling the son of Donald and Doris (Gibson) Johnson. He attended Prophetstown elementary schools and was a 1958 graduate of Prophetstown High School. He also attended a short course in agriculture at the University of Illinois.

 

Gary married Joan Olson on July 28, 1962 at the Tampico United Methodist Church. Gary has been engaged in farming all his life. He was also active in many community activities: Ball Program in Tampico from 1967 – 2000; member of the Board of Directors of the Whiteside Co Farm Bureau; member of the Board of Directors of the Whiteside Co Farm Services Agency; Member of the Tampico Lions Club; President of the Tampico Cemetery Association; Member Antique Engine & Tractor Association; Tampico Community Club; Tampico Area Historical Society; Tampico Area Long Range Planning Committee; Christmas in the Country; Tampico United Methodist Church youth programs and many mission projects; former Facilities Committee member of Wesley Woods Methodist Camp in Wisconsin; and he was named Whiteside Co Republican Volunteer of the Year for 2016.

 

He enjoyed being with his grandchildren and nieces and nephews and attending all their activities as was possible. His pride and joy was driving his antique 1950 Oliver 66 in parades. For over 50 years he has been pleased to share Christmas Joy with the surrounding communities by decorating the farm yard with over 100 lighted figures and other displays. He was a great sports enthusiast and did his best to make it to as many local school ball games as possible.

 

Survivors include his wife, Joan; two sons Terry (Gabriela) Johnson of Rockford and Kelly (Carrie) Johnson of Pleasant Prairie, WI; four grandchildren: Michaela, Miranda, Addison and Andrew; his sister Shirley (Douglas) Jensen of Prophetstown.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Dwight.

 

Visitation will be held on Sunday June 3, 2018 from 3-7 PM at the Tampico United Methodist Church. The funeral will follow on Monday June 4, 2018 at 11 AM in the church with the Reverend Leann Keate, pastor officiating. Burial will conclude at the Tampico Memorial Cemetery. Arrangements by Garland Funeral Home, Tampico.

 

A memorial will be established in his memory.