James “Jim” Edward Johnson Sr. was born to eternal life March 19, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was born Dec. 1, 1936, in Phillips.
He attended Divine Word Seminary and Marquette High School. Jim proudly served his country in the U.S. Army and his Lord as a missionary in New Guinea.
He worked for 25 years at Caterpillar and 15 years at Trent Tube where he demonstrated his strong work ethic and dedication to his family.
Jim enjoyed bowling (high game 297), golfing, hunting, raising pheasants, occasionally trimming trees, and his favorite pastime, putzing. He was an avid curator of the art of philately (stamps) and was eager to share his vast knowledge on the subject with anyone who would listen.
He served in Boy Scout Troop 92, the Knights of Columbus, and the parish of St. Peter’s Catholic Church.
Jim was an aficionado of fine cigars and beer.
After his retirement he enjoyed working at the Walworth County Fair.
On Oct. 21, 1967, he married his one true love, Mary Ursula Berg, and have since celebrated 55 years of wedded bliss. Together they raised their five adoring and adorable children: Joseph (Teri née Mayer), James Jr. (Michelle née Ley), William (Marney née MacDougall), Therese Schrieber (Adam), and Julie Widener.
His pride and joy were his grandchildren: Logan Schraeder, Luke Schraeder, Jordyn Schraeder, Alex Schraeder, Michaela Johnson, Colton Johnson, Ella Johnson, Moira Johnson, Jack Johnson, Mary Schrieber, Lucy Schrieber, Adam Schrieber Jr, Houston Widener, Mason Widener, and Joseph Widener. Jim loved spending time with them at the home he and Mary built and entertaining everyone with his unmatched sense of humor.
Forever the prankster, he kept his family on their toes until the very end.
His surviving siblings include Bernard Johnson Sr., Rosemary Johnson Sr., Margaret Johnson, Mary Therese Waltersdorf, and Patricia (Louis) New.
He was further preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Irene (née McLaughlin); brother, Arthur; and sister, Joan Lueneburg.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the East Troy Family Community Resource Center, St. Peter’s Helping Hands, or AngelsGrace Hospice would be greatly appreciated.
A Celebration of Life Mass for family and friends will be Saturday, July 29, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in East Troy.
