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Kenneth “Ken” H. Johnson, age 84, passed away on Monday, December 8, 2025, at Our House Senior Living in River Falls, WI. Ken was born on January 1, 1941, in Balsam Lake, WI, and spent his life surrounded by family and friends who loved him dearly.
Ken graduated from New Richmond High School and pursued further education at a technical college, equipping himself for a remarkable career in the packaging industry. He spent 12 years butchering hogs at Amour Meat Company in St. Paul, MN, before moving on to Doboy, where he became a skilled CNC Programmer. Ken took pride in his work and retired from Bosch, where he had made countless contributions over the years.
Ken was passionate about life. He had a flair for maintaining a beautiful yard, complete with stunning rose gardens, and he loved bird watching. His adventurous spirit led him to camping in his motor home and enjoying ATV rides up north as well as spending time with his grandchildren. He was also a model airplane enthusiast, taking great delight in building and flying them. A true NASCAR fan, he cherished his annual trips to Talladega and many Saturday’s at Cedar Lake Speedway, where the thrill of the race made him truly happy.
Ken is survived by his beloved children, Shelly Johnson of Hammond, WI, Troy (Tiffany) Johnson of Spooner, WI, and Brad Johnson of River Falls, WI. He leaves behind seven grandchildren—Kayla, Taylor, Travis, Sienna, Tabitha, Jagger, and Tanner—who will carry his memory forward. Ken is also survived by his brother, Clinton Johnson, and brother-in-law, George Beaver, along with several nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who will miss him greatly.
He was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Judie Johnson; his parents, Herbert and Elvira Johnson; and his sister, Gloria Beaver.
To honor Ken’s life, a memorial service will be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services, located at 728 S Knowles Ave in New Richmond. Prior to the service, there will be a visitation from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at the funeral home. Following the service, Ken will be laid to rest in Immaculate Conception Catholic Cemetery.
Ken Johnson will be remembered not only for his meticulous ways and passions but for the kindness he shared with everyone around him. He will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
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I became acquainted with Kenny when he moved next door to us. We found we had things in common; both moved from the country to the city. It was a bit of adjustment, but it was nice to have someone to talk to with similar interests.
We would sit at his picnic table, watching gophers run across our back yards, discussing irrigation systems, why some grass was green and others (mine) was brown. He could tell me all about automobile engines and their performance.
He was always eager to help me anytime I asked.
He was seldom without his dog, Buttons, so I got another friend who always wanted a belly rub or back scratch.
Ken’s greeting was “Nice day, isn’t it?”
I miss you Buddy.
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