David William Johnson, 61, died on Jan. 26, 2025, at his home.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 5, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Farmersville, at 11 a.m. A visitation will be held an hour prior to the service starting at 10 a.m. Fr. Florent Kanga will officiate. Burial will follow in Rovey Cemetery in Farmersville.
Mr. Johnson was born on June 6, 1963, in Hayward, CA, to Kevin and Thelma Johnson, and was baptized and confirmed in the Catholic faith. He grew up in Pekin and married Kathleen Murphy of Farmersville on March 11, 1995.
Mr. Johnson graduated from Southern Illinois University with a degree in mechanical engineering in 1985. He worked as an environmental engineer and later as a public service administrator for the Illinois Department of Public Health until his retirement in 2018. He was a licensed professional engineer.
Mr. Johnson was a lifelong hunter, fisherman and outdoor enthusiast. He served as a hunter safety instructor for many years. He seldom left the woods empty-handed due to his expertise. He passionately protected the woods and wilds of his country.
Mr. Johnson loved his Brittanys, of which he raised, trained and loved many, including: Sham, Willy, Max, Jesse, Josey and Lucy. He was a leader in the Heart of Illinois Brittany Club and worked to host field trials. He kept the club supplied with pigeons that he trapped all over the Springfield area.
Mr. Johnson loved traveling with his wife to experience the world. They went to Italy in the fall of 2019, and he traveled often with family and friends to hunting destinations.
Anyone spending time with Mr. Johnson was surely invited to join him in a taste of wine, either from his own vintages or commercial, raising a toast to someone or something special. He was always a happy, optimistic soul, ready to help anyone who needed his assistance. His love and devotion to his family and his wife’s family was evident in his selfless service to us all. His infectious laugh warmed everyone’s heart.
Mr. Johnson is survived by his devoted wife; brothers, Terry Johnson of Guffey, CO, Chuck (Donna) Johnson of Albuquerque, NM, and sisters, Pat Schmillen of East Peoria and Mary (Steve) LeGrand of Cape Girardeau, MO; 17 nieces and nephews; and 21 great-nieces and nephews.
Mr. Johnson was preceded in death by his parents, Kevin and Thelma Johnson.
Memorials may be made in Dave’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Hough Memorial Home in Farmersville is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be left online at www.houghfuneralhome.com.