Date of Birth:
Thursday, October 12, 1933
Date of Death:
Monday, March 16, 2026
Age:
92 years old

William “Bill” Johnke

William “Bill” Johnke

William “Bill” Johnke, 92, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away on March 16, 2026, in the community he had called home for many years, with his daughter by his side.

Bill was born in Lennox, South Dakota, to William and Leola Johnke. He graduated from Pine Island High School in Pine Island, Minnesota.

He proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1953 to 1955 and was honorably discharged. He carried that sense of duty and commitment with him throughout his life and remained a member of the American Legion.

Bill married Lois Folkert in 1955, and together they raised their daughter, Kris. He later married Lorraine Andrist in 1971, with whom he shared the rest of his life, and together they raised their daughter, Tanya.

Bill spent more than 50 years in the car business in Rochester, working with Clement’s Chevrolet, Bill Johnke Lincoln Mercury BMW & Jeep, and Universal Ford. He was known for his strong work ethic, his honesty, and the relationships he built over decades with customers and colleagues.

Outside of work, Bill’s greatest joy was his family and his lifelong love of horses. Together, they traveled across the United States showing Quarter Horses, Arabians, and American Saddlebreds, earning numerous championships along the way. Those years brought not only success, but a lifetime of stories and memories that he cherished.

Bill also had an appreciation for craftsmanship and quality. He enjoyed collecting antiques, including wood furniture, pottery, and wristwatches. His love for animals was constant throughout his life. From time spent at the family dairy farm with Holsteins to the many beloved dogs who were part of the family, Bill found joy in their presence and companionship.

In his spare time, he enjoyed watching ball games, and it was rare to enter his home without finding an episode of Gunsmoke playing on the television.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Lorraine Johnke; and his siblings, Terri Brownlow, Gerry Johnke, and Sally Kratchmer.

He is survived by his daughters, Kristin Hofmeister (Mike) of Rochester and Tanya Hietpas (Paul) of St. Paul; his grandchildren, Jamie and Jeremy Hofmeister; three great-grandchildren; and many extended family members.

Bill will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his steady work ethic, his love of animals, and the many stories and memories he shared with those around him.

A private family gathering, celebration and interment will be held at a later date.

The family extends their sincere gratitude to AVIVA River Bend for the care, compassion, and support he received since 2019.