Dorothy Mae Johnson

Dorothy Mae (Keenlance) Johnson, age 96, of Minocqua, formerly of Plainfield, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at home on June 14th.  Dorothy was born on November 13, 1929, in Almond, Wisconsin, the daughter of Albert H. and Anne (Warnichek) Keenlance. She was united in marriage to Charles H. Johnson on September 12, 1947, in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin.

Dorothy cherished working alongside her husband, Charles, and played an integral role in helping manage their two cheese stores. She was a devoted partner in both life and business, often driving Charles to meetings across the Midwest and lending her steady support. Dorothy also worked in several of their cheese packaging plants, where she cut and wrapped cheese and took pride in supervising and supporting the employees who worked alongside her. Her strong work ethic and dedication were evident in everything she did.

Dorothy shared her creativity and love through her special talents, including her delicious popcorn balls and homemade dinner rolls, which became cherished family favorites. She delighted in bringing loved ones together and hosted countless family gatherings, celebrations, and holiday meals that created lasting memories.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Hiram Johnson; her parents, Albert and Anne (Warnichek) Keenlance; her brother, Gene Keenlance; her sister-in-law, Marjorie Staples, and her husband, Vance Staples; her brothers-in-law, Clifton “Bud” Johnson and his wife, Gladys; her granddaughter, Melissa (Sullivan) Olson; and her nephews, Glen Staples and Chris Johnson.

Dorothy is survived by her children: Sandra (Johnson) Sullivan and her husband, William; Charles “Chuck” Johnson and his wife, Shirley; and Gary Johnson and his wife, Mary. She is further survived by her beloved grandchildren: Eric Johnson and Amy Johnson; Heidi Johnson-Webber and her husband, Chris Webber; Maeghan (Sullivan) Johnson and Chad Johnson; Travis Johnson and his wife, Christine; Jeremiah Johnson and his wife, Kira; and Shannon (Johnson) Spence and her husband, Marshall. Dorothy also leaves behind many cherished great-grandchildren: Abigail and Alexis Olson; Callie and Mason Johnson; William and Connor Johnson; Savannah, Tristen, and Evelyn Johnson; Ozzie Bunch; Nolan, Kai, and Krosby Johnson; and Garrett Spence.

The Johnson family extends their sincere gratitude to the hospice staff, especially Nurse Brenda, as well as caregivers Sandy and Margie, who devoted five years of loving care to Dorothy. They also like to thank Char and CeCe for their kindness, compassion, and support.

Upon her wishes, cremation took place and private graveside services will be held at Spiritland Cemetery in Plainfield, WI.

Online condolences may be shared at nimsgernfuneral.com

NIMSGERN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES IS SERVING THE FAMILY.