Lauren G. "Sunny" Johnson

Lauren G. "Sunny" Johnson, 87, lifetime resident of Superior, passed away Wednesday Sept., 26, 2012, at St. Luke's Hospice with his grandson Chris at his side.

Lauren was born on Feb. 10, 1925, the son of Albert and Alyce Johnson.

Lauren enlisted in the Navy serving during World War II as a Fire Control Technician.

He married the former Dolores "Dolly" Whittaker on March 12, 1948, and they celebrated 64 years of marriage together.

He had worked as an engineer at the Cargill grain elevators and he retired as a Supervisor from the BNSF Taconite Facility. He was on the board of directors for the BNSF Employees Club.

Lauren was a past commander and longtime honor guard member of the Richard I. Bong American Legion Post 435. He was the last remaining charter member of the Parkland Fire Department and he was Parkland Town Supervisor for 50 years. He loved racing and was inducted into the Tri-State Racing Association Hall of fame. He was a devoted Green Bay Packer fan.

Most important to Lauren was his family and he enjoyed playing with his great-grandson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Russell; sister, Sandra; and a niece, Tracey.

Lauren is survived by his wife, Dolly; daughters, Laurel "Kookie" (Gary) LaJoie of Iron River and Pamela (Rick) Lapham of Ellijay, Ga.; grandchildren, Christopher LaJoie of Superior and Casey LaJoie of Iron River; great-grandson, Colton LaJoie; and a special daughter, DeAnn Olson of South Range.

A mass of the resurrection at the Church of St. Alban The Martyr will be held on Monday Oct. 1, at 11 a.m.. with Rev. Nicholas Thomas Hill. Visitation will begin one hour prior. Military honors will be accorded by the Richard I. Bong American Legion Post 435.

Downs Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Sign the online guestbook or send condolences at www.downsfh.com.

Tags: obituaries