Michael Dean Johnson

Dates

Obituary

Michael Dean Johnson, 72, of Mitchell, SD, passed away Friday, January 3, 2025, at Firesteel Healthcare Center in Mitchell. Visitation for friends and family will be held Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 2-4:00 PM at Bittner Funeral Chapel. Private burial will be held at a later date at White Lake Cemetery in White Lake, SD.

Mike was born April 25, 1952, to John and Caroline (Peggy Knigge) Johnson in Wessington Springs, SD. He joined an older sister (Nancy), and three older brothers (Jim, Leon, and David), followed by a second sister (Gayle). He grew up on a farm north of White Lake. That upbringing taught him the rigors of milking cows early in the morning and in the evening, along with other daily farm chores. For fun, he joined his brothers and friends on rabbit hunts at night, deer hunting during the day, and driving his ‘fast’ car.  

From that small farm, Mike developed a love for farming and ranching. He spent many years working as a ranch hand, helping family and friends work their cattle and land. A new way of life came when he moved to Mitchell and later worked for the City of Mitchell from 2000 until 2012, following his earlier employment with Michels Pipeline. 

As life slowed down, Mike’s greatest enjoyment was driving the countryside, checking out the scenery, crops, and livestock. He would often stop by for a visit, sharing a story and a laugh with friends. He was known to pull off the road when he saw a body of water, grab his fishing rod and try his luck at a catch.  

Mike is survived by his children, Stacie (Jason) Barber, Edina, MN, Clayton (Stephanie) Johnson, Eden Prairie, MN, and Quentin (Kara) Johnson, Lilburn, GA; five grandchildren: Lavin, Quaid and Kendrie Johnson; Brynn and Jayden Barber; two sisters, Nancy (Ted) Wiebe, Burns, KS and Gayle (Russ) Krumvieda, White Lake, SD; and brother, James Johnson, Worthington, MN.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Peggy Johnson, brothers, Leon and David Johnson, and sister-in-law, Joan Johnson.

Visitation(s)

Cemetery