Donald “Don” Dean Johnson, age 90, of North Platte, Nebraska, passed away Thursday, February 13, 2025, at Great Plains Health surrounded by family and loved ones.
He was born September 9, 1934, in Logan County, NE, to Arthur Gray and Ruth Ellen (Teaford) Johnson. During his childhood, his family moved to Hershey, NE, where he attended and graduated from Hershey High School. He also developed his work ethic through working on local farms.
After graduating, Don was inspired to serve his country by joining the United States Army. After returning home from service, he began working as a lineman for Municipal Light and Power in North Platte. During this time, Donald met the love of his life Joan Ann Facka. They were married on May 14, 1959, and to this union was born their three beloved daughters, Kristie, Debbie, and Tammie. Don was a hard-worker and could often be found spending his weekends working for local farmers.
Though his work kept him busy, he never lost sight of what was truly important to him. He loved his family. He was inseparable from his wife for almost 65 years of marriage and frequently spoke of her and their reunion in heaven after her passing. Now they look down upon the children they raised and the grandchildren they doted upon. Though they are missed, they leave behind many memories with those they love. From cheering on the grandkids at basketball games, driving the granddaughters to volleyball camp, sneaking in some lessons about poker, or a very special trip with Mark to Las Vegas, the lessons and moments shared live on through all those who knew him. He was also an avid fisherman and gardener. Those who knew him knew he loved to laugh and loved to make people laugh! To those who grieve him, know he would tell you in his patient and mild-manner tone. “It’ll be alright.”
Those left to cherish Donald’s memory are his daughters, Kristie (Tom) Taylor of Minden, Debbie (Marty) Anderson of Fort Collins, CO, and Tammie (Billie) Reed of North Platte; grandchildren, Sarah Taylor (Steven), Lauren (Corbin) Michal, Chuck (Sandy) Anderson, Craig (Sarah) Anderson, Christina (Garrett) Havig, Joe Anderson, Rachel Anderson (Dom), Mark Reed, Brad (Megan) Reed; several great grandchildren; brother-in-law, Doug (Linda) Facka; brother, Gene Johnson; sister, Peggy Chaney; several nieces, nephews, and other family.
He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Joan Ann Johnson; brother, Lyle Johnson; sister and brother-in-law, Evelyn (Lyle) White; brothers-in-law, Alan Facka, Dennis Facka, and Bill Chaney; and sisters-in-law, Marcy Johnson and Janet Johnson.
Funeral services were held Friday, February 21, 2025 at United Methodist Church in North Platte with Pastor Michael Evans officiating. Burial followed at Fort McPherson National Cemetery. Adams and Swanson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the family for future designation.