Dennis Dean Johnson

Dennis Dean Johnson, age 83, passed away on Sunday, July 28, 2024.

Dennis Johnson was born on October 13, 1940, in Janesville, son of Carl and Alice Johnson. He graduated from Janesville Senior High School. Dennis served the United States Navy and was proud to have served his country 1959 to 1963 serving on the USS Independence. Dennis worked for AT&T for 35 years, starting in 1967; 10 years in Palmyra as a communication technician and 25 Years at the Hancock Road Station, Watertown WI, until he retired in 2001.

Dennis was a Life Member of Watertown American Legion Post 189, Life Member of VFW Post 3709, a Life member of American Veterans (AMVETS) Chapter 35, served as Watertown Veterans Council secretary, Jefferson County Legion Council member, Jefferson County Veterans Councilman, Dodge County Veterans Board member, Dodge County Veterans Commission, 20 years as a Selective Service System Board member, and he was a driver for the Jefferson County Veteran 12VA van. Member of Watertown Elks Lodge, Watertown Kiwanis Club Past President, Life member of Watertown Conservation Club a past Watertown Kiwanis President. He served many years ushering at St. Henry's Catholic Church. He became a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in 2019. Dennis was the designer, founder and coordinator of the Veteran Paver Project at Watertown Veterans Memorial Park started in 2013.

Dennis was also active in Boy Scouts of America for 27 years, with Troop 14 in Palmyra until moving to Watertown where he was also Cubmaster at Douglas Elementary School, Scoutmaster for St. Henry Troop 43 and a member of the Order of the Arrow Brotherhood. In 1983, Dennis was privileged to receive the Silver Beaver Award, the highest scout volunteer award, that is only given to those who do not actively seek it.

Dennis married Deborah Heinrich May 9, 1970, and they were blessed with two children, Dean (Amy) Johnson, Deanne (James) Schuck, granddaughter Daisy Johnson and grandson Aaron Johnson. He is also survived by his sisters, MaryAnn (Reg) Wagner and Judy (Bob) Gentry. Dennis is further survived by nieces, a nephew, other relatives, and many friends. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Schmutzler-Vick Funeral Home of Watertown with Pastor Reseburg presiding. Visitation will be held from 11:00 AM until the time of service at the funeral home. American Legion Post 189, VFW Post 3709, and American Veterans Chapter 35 will provide military honors following the service. Burial services of his ashes will be at Oakhill Cemetery in Watertown at a later date.

If desired, memorials may be made in name of Dennis D. Johnson to the Watertown Veterans Council, P.O. Box 22. Watertown WI 53094.