Dean Johnson

Dean H. Johnson, 80, of Loves Park passed away Sunday, July 17, 2016. Born May 16, 1936, in Rockford, son of Eddie Axel and Wyone D. (Armstrong) Johnson. Veteran of the U.S. Navy. Married Ferne Luepkes in Kirkland, August 29, 1959. Retired from Sundstrand Manufacturing in 1995 after 40 years. Member of Riverside Community Church, UAW Local 592 and former president of the UAW Retirees. He was involved in music playing drums for dance bands in the 50’s and playing Dobro for Bluegrass festivals. He also played Dobro and sang for BlackHawk Country and Bluegrass Gospel Bands. Proudly served on the jury of the John Wayne Gacy trial. Survivors include his wife, Ferne; twin sons, Bradly D. (Barbara) Johnson and Brian E. (Gail) Johnson; daughter, Dana W. Bates; grandchildren, Keith E. (Kristin) Johnson, Leanne M. (Patrick) Trim, Alisa J. Johnson, Laura B. (Jake) Kocorowski, Christine A. (Dan) Padilla, Anna L. Johnson, Cassie Joy Bates and Sean G. Bates; 9 great-grandchildren; sister, Kay (Jim) Keith.

Memorial service at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 21, in Delehanty Funeral Home, Ltd., 401 River Lane, Loves Park. Visitation from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established.