David "Dave" Herman Johnson

David “Dave” Herman Johnson, age 94, of Wausau, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2025, at his home, surrounded by love and comfort, listening to his favorite polka music.

Dave was born on October 19, 1930, to Frank and Erna Johnson. He graduated from Merrill High School in 1948 and married the love of his life, Gert, on January 23, 1954. Together, they shared an incredible 71 years of marriage filled with devotion, laughter, and a beautiful life, built side by side.

Dave began his working life farming with his father and siblings before enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1954. He proudly served for three years, stationed in Verdun, France. After returning home, Dave pursued vocational training in carpentry, welding, and drafting. He spent nine years building homes before joining the Carpenters Union, where he worked for 30 years on major commercial construction projects. He remained a proud union member for 57 years.

Throughout his life, Dave was a man of many talents and interests. He had a gift for building — from furniture to lifelong memories. He loved tinkering with projects, making maple syrup, gardening, and spending time outdoors. His favorite places included Lake Pesobic, where he made countless memories with family, and his cherished homestead, purchased in 1974, where he could often be found riding his four-wheeler, tractor and enjoying nature.

Dave and Gert loved camping together in their 5th wheel camper, embarking on adventures big and small. In 2013, one of Dave's favorite experiences came when he participated in the Honor Flight with his son Larry — a day of reflection, pride, and gratitude for his service.

Dave was the heart of his family—steadfast, loving, and endlessly proud. He never missed an opportunity to talk about his grandchildren, Mitchel and Madie, with a sparkle in his eyes and joy in his voice. To him, family wasn’t just important—it was everything.

As the family grew, so did his pride. Becoming a great-grandpa was a chapter he cherished deeply. Myles, Maizy, and Lincoln brought him renewed joy, and the love for the little ones was boundless. Whether through stories, photos, or the quiet smile that would spread across his face at the mention of their names, Dave made sure everyone knew just how much his family meant to him.

After the unexpected passing of his son Larry, Dave opened his home to his grandson, his wife, and their two children. This time was filled with healing and profound connection. Dave cherished every moment spent with his grandson, his wife, and great-grandchildren, and found new joy in sharing his wisdom, love, and sense of humor with his growing family. Mitchel and Mackenzie took care of him for the last two years of his life.  He was beyond grateful for that gift.

Dave leaves behind a legacy of hard work, quiet strength, and unconditional love, which can be seen that he passed down directly to his grandchildren Mitchel, and Madie. He was a man of devotion — to his family, his land, and his values. His spirit will live on in the memories he helped create and the lives he touched.

Survivors include, daughter, Debra (Bob) Thompson; daughter-in-law, Terri Johnson; grandchildren, Mitchel (Mackenzie) Johnson and Madeline (Brandon) Smith; great-grandchildren, Myles and Maizy Johnson and Lincoln Smith; sisters-in-law, Carol Johnson and Judy Leistikow; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gertrude; his son, Larry; his parents, Frank and Erna Johnson; siblings, Hilma Schmidt, Ann Klimek, Vera Yinger, Earl Johnson, Frank Luther Johnson, Erling Johnson, and Jim Johnson.

An extended thank you goes out to the hospice team at Interim Health - Tim, John, Rochelle, Jenny and Team - We are forever indebted to your kindness, tender loving care, endless support, and patience.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 501 Stewart Avenue, Wausau.  Rev. Peter Williamson will officiate.  Visitation will be on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until time of services at the church.  Military honors will be conducted by the American Legion Post No. 10, Wausau following services at church.  Entombment will be Monday at 10:00 a.m. at the Memorial Chapel Mausoleum, Restlawn Memorial Park, Wausau.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com