COLUMBUS – Donald B. Johnson, 66, of Columbus, passed away at his home following a long battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease on Feb. 5, 2011.
He was born on Nov. 25, 1944, the son of Robert and Cora (Whitney) Johnson. His childhood was spent in the New Berlin and Columbus areas where he was a 1962 graduate of New Berlin Central School.
Donald was a dairy farmer for more than 50 years. He was a member of the New Berlin Fire Department where he served as a chief officer for many years. He was also a member of the National FFA and was the recipient of the Star Farmer Award. He served as a board member for the Town of Columbus for twelve years and helped to build Norton Park. He enjoyed riding and racing snowmobiles and tractor pulling at the local county fairs.
He is survived by his sons; Michael Johnson of Pittsfield, Pat & Rachel Johnson of New Berlin and Willy & Jennifer Kapp of Pittsfield, his grandchildren; Brock, Taylor, Kora & Kerri Johnson and Brenden & Kennedy Kapp, his mother; Cora Johnson and sister Eileen Johnson of Columbus. He is also survived by special friends, Diane and Cheryl Hoxie of New Berlin.
Donald was predeceased by his father Robert and wife Margaret Rich Johnson.
Calling hours will be held on Saturday, Feb. 12 at the New Berlin Fire House from 1 to 5 p.m. A memorial service with presentation by the Fire Department will be held at 2.
Memorial donations may be made to the New Berlin Fire Department, New Berlin.
Arrangements are made by the Dakin Funeral Home LP, New Berlin.