Carson Celebration of Life Center
Rev. Harry James Johnson Sr., a cherished minister, devoted family man, and passionate musician, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2024, in Dubuque, Iowa. Born on December 13, 1948, in Maquoketa, Iowa, Harry's life was a testament to his unwavering faith, love for his family, and dedication to his community.
Harry grew up in Monmouth and proudly graduated from Midland High School in Wyoming, Iowa, in 1967. His commitment to spiritual growth led him to attend Seminary at the University of Dubuque. On March 11, 1967, he married his beloved wife, Barbara Jean Hollingshead, in Monmouth, Iowa. Their loving union was blessed with nine children who filled their lives with joy and purpose.
Before answering his true calling, Harry worked as an over-the-road truck driver, a job that took him across the country. However, his heart was always with his family and his congregation. He was ordained and went on to serve as the pastor at Wesley United Methodist Church in East Dubuque, Illinois, followed by his leadership at the Open Bible Church in Dubuque, Iowa, and finally, the Full Gospel Light House Church in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. Even while shepherding his flock, Harry found time to work for Complete Decorating, specializing in painting and drywall. He retired in 2013, leaving behind a legacy of faith and service.
Music coursed through Harry's veins. He was a talented musician and songwriter, contributing his gifts to several bands, including the Tensions, Chaparrals, Rogues of Ivy, Country Drifters, Hickory River Band, and Step of Faith. His love for music was only matched by his enjoyment of woodworking, painting, working on cars, and fishing. Above all, Harry cherished the moments spent with his children and grandchildren, instilling in them the values of love, compassion, and kindness.
Harry's memory will be forever honored by his loving wife, Barbara Johnson of East Dubuque, IL/Akeley, MN; his children, Rev. Harry Jr. (Pam) Johnson of MN, Janie (Chuck) Scott of IL, Stacie (Brent Swan) Johnson of IA, Dawn Johnson of WI, Dr. Chad (Johnette) Johnson of MN, Rev. Matthew (Angela) Johnson of IA, Jeremy (Teri) Johnson of MN, Rev. Timothy Johnson of WI, and Christa (Rich) Mickelson of WI; his adoring 24 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren; and his siblings, Phyllis Smith of IA, Henry (Laurie) Johnson of CA, Larry Johnson of IA, Janice Johnson of UT, Stephen Johnson of MO, Ellen (Larry) Agnitsch of IA, and Mary Kay (Gary) Schmidt of IA.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Eli and Vera Desire (DeMoss) Johnson, his brother Clay Johnson, and a grandson, Gabriel Scott.
A celebration of his life will be held at 1 P.M., Friday, September 6, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. at the funeral home. Burial will be at the Pence Cemetery, rural Baldwin, IA.
The family would like to thank the staff of both Luther Manor in Dubuque and Hospice of Dubuque for taking such good care of Harry.
In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Rev. Harry J. Johnson Sr. memorial fund has been established.
Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.
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