Dennis L. Johnson

Macken Funeral Home Memorial Photo
Date of Birth:
Friday, November 10, 1939
Date of Death:
Tuesday, November 12, 2019
Age:
80 years old

Visitation

Date: Monday November 18, 2019
Time: 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Location: River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home [ view map ]

2nd Visitation

Date: Tuesday November 19, 2019
Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am

Location: River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home [ view map ]

Funeral Service

Date: Tuesday November 19, 2019
Time: 11:00 am

Location: River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home [ view map ]

Burial

Location: Oakwood Cemetery

Macken Funeral Home Memorial Photo
Date of Birth:
Friday, November 10, 1939
Date of Death:
Tuesday, November 12, 2019
Age:
80 years old
Macken Funeral Home Memorial Photo
Date of Birth:
Friday, November 10, 1939
Date of Death:
Tuesday, November 12, 2019
Age:
80 years old

Dennis L. Johnson

Dennis L Johnson, 80, of Rochester, MN died on November 12, 2019 at St Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, MN. He was born to Tony and Ida Johnson on November 10, 1939 in Tracy, MN. He graduated from Walnut Grove High School in 1957 and the University of Minnesota in 1961. He married Joann Monson in August of 1969 in Marine on St. Croix, MN. He spent most of his adult life living with multiple sclerosis. He became an inspiration to many because of his positive attitude, great smile, and determination to keep doing the things he loved. He taught in Farmington, Pine Island, and Rochester. He was a volunteer track coach at Mayo High School for 21 years and made many lasting relationships with members of the team as he coached from his mobility scooter. He spent many summers working with the All Comer Track Meets in Rochester.

He is survived by his wife, Joann; brother, Donald of Walnut Grove, MN; brother, Doug (Sharon) of Spring Hill, FL; sister, Evonne Phillippe (Gene) of Hayfield, MN and Surprise, AZ, many nieces and nephews; some great nieces and nephews; and some great-great nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and sister in law, Judy Johnson.

Dennis enjoyed trap shooting, University of MN wrestling, and cheering for and helping young athletes. He was a member of the Rochester Quarterbacks Club and the Dodge Center Sportsman’s Club and the Southern MN Sportsman’s Club. Dennis was also a member of the Eagles Aerie 2228 Rochester.

The funeral service for Dennis will be held at 11:00 a.m. on November 19th, 2019 at Macken Funeral Home in Rochester with Pastors Paul Hauschild and Ron Hackmann officiating. A visitation will be at Macken Funeral Home on Monday November 18 from 4-7 and one hour prior to the service on Tuesday. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Rochester.

Memorials are preferred to the University of Minnesota to support the wrestling team, National MS Society, or a charity of donor’s choice.

Condolences

The family of Dennis L. Johnson has received the following condolences.

Mrs. J,


I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Mr. J! He was my biggest cheerleader in track! I think I can speak for all the girls in Mayo High School track through the years when I say Mr. J touched our hearts with his unwavering patience, kindness, love, smiles, cheers, his fighting spirit and most of all.... the many stories he told that captured our hearts!
 R.I.P. Mr. J!

Joann, my sincere condolences on the loss of Dennis. I just know he is in heaven talking track with Glenn. 

Dennis was a fine man and an inspiration to many. You are missed.

Deepest sympathies to Joann and family. What a kind soul Dennis was. I remember fondly Dennis helping out with junior high girls basketball games and teaching me how to run the timer and score board. He was so supportive of all athletes. May he rest in peace and may God bless you and keep you, Joann.

Joann, we are so sorry to hear of Dennis’ death .. we are in AZ so are unable to attend visitation and funeral.  We extend our heartfelt sympathy to you..

What a privilege it's been to know Dennis and Joann since my first year in track many years ago. Dennis' kind and encouraging words, his sweet smile and his generosity to others will always be remembered and cherished. I'll miss you Mr. J. May the Lord's peace, strength, and comfort surround you always, Joann. With love, Kris

Joann, by deepest sympathies to you on Dennis’ passing. I always enjoyed talking with him when we were working the various running activities. Whether it was the Mayo Girls Invite, All Comers meet, or one of the many road races in town, he was always fun to work with. He will definitely be missed.


 

Dennis was a terrific photographer who taught me many of the basics- of which I still use today. And, Dennis and Joann are really kind, caring, helpful, knowledgeable, and FUN to coach with at Mayo High School. I was in charge of the field events- shot put, discus, high jump, and then wherever needed. I know Dennis is up in Heaven blowing his whistle to organize hurdles, and baton-passing with everybody - maybe my Parents will try a relay! 

My Dad just told me that Dennis died. Love and hugs to you Joanne. You two were a blessing and inspiration to me during my cross country years at Mayo High School. Thanks for all you have done!