Robert B. Johnson, age 71, of Rhinelander, died on March 24, 2009 at the St. Mary's Hospital, surrounded by all his family. He was born on May 14, 1937 in Rhinelander to Matthew and Edith(Holquist)Johnson. Bob was a lifelong resident of Rhinelander. He graduated from the Rhinelander High School in 1955 and he lettered all four years in football, basketball and baseball. He then entered the US Army and served from 1956-1959. Upon his honorable discharge he returned to the states and attended college at UW Superior. He later achieved his associate degree from Nicolet College. Bob was employed by the Rhinelander Paper Company for a number of years before going to work for the Wisconsin Dept of Transportation. He was with the DOT for 27 years retiring in 1997. Bob was a lifelong member of the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church. He was a member of the Rhinelander Country Club for 32 years and he loved golf. In earlier years he played in the fastpitch softball leagues in Rhinelander. He enjoyed anything to do with the outdoors whether it be fishing, camping, hunting etc. He was an avid fan of "all" Wisconsin sports, high school, college and professional. Most of all though, he cherished the time spent with his wife, kids, grandkids and many friends. He enjoyed being around people and they enjoyed being around him. He is survived by his wife Jan, his two daughters Michelle(Kevin)Kurilla of Oregon, WI and Melissa(Jason)Polzin of Lake Mills, WI, his son Todd(Dawn Droes)Johnson of Rhinelander, his grandchildren Matthew and Mikayla Kurilla and Bennett and Maggie Polzin, his special friends Rachel and Tyler, his brother Thomas(Patricia)Johnson of Rhinelander, his brother in law Swede Clyde Larson of Rhinelander, nieces, nephews and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Doris Larson and his nephew Bradley Johnson. Funeral services for Bob will be held on Friday, March 27, 2009 at 11:00 AM at the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church with Reverend Kari Vadis and Deacon Ronald Bosi officiating. Visitation will be from 5-8 PM on Thursday, March 26, 2009 at the Carlson Funeral Home and from 10-11 AM on Friday at the Church. A memorial is being established in Bob's name and can be directed to his family. The Carlson Funeral Home (715-369-1414/www.carlsonfh.com) is handling the arrangements for the Johnson family.
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