Michael Jon Johnson, 69, died on Sunday, Aug. 2, 2026, at the Midlands Living Center in Council Bluffs. He was born on June 20, 1957, in Des Moines, to Robert and Karen (Scott) Johnson. He grew up in central Iowa graduating from Nevada High School in 1975. Mike enlisted in the United States Army, serving from 1976 to 1979, a chapter of his life that instilled in him the values of discipline and commitment. Mike was united in marriage to Anita Oehm on June 9, 1978, in Ames. He went to automotive and diesel mechanic school in Des Moines, after which his career path saw him start with Massey Ferguson in Nevada, before the family moved to the Woodbine area in 1986. Mike then began his long time career with his friend, Gene McGinn as they served the local communities with their business, G&M Refrigeration and Appliance Service.
Mike was a man of varied interests and passions. He delighted in old cars, relished hunting pheasants, and enjoyed traveling to the mountains where he found a sense of peace and adventure. Mike cherished his family and friends and especially treasured taking on the role of raising his grandson Trayton, nurturing a bond that will be remembered fondly. His journey to become 34 years sober stood as a testament to his strength and resilience.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter, Star LeAnn Whitney; and brother, Stephen Johnson. He is survived by his wife, Anita; son, David Johnson (Chelle McCullen) of Albert Lee, Minn.; daughter, Katherine Johnson (Dustin Reeh) of Council Bluffs; grandsons, Austin Johnson and Trayton Rockwell; brother, Michael Dennis (Donna) Johnson of Aurora, Colo.; sister, Terry Jenkins (Karen Oleski) of Port Washington, Wis.; sister-in-law, Diane Wilhelm Johnson of Port Washington; and many other relatives and friends.
A memorial service was held for Mike on Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026 at Fouts Funeral Home in Woodbine. Bill and Chris DeWitt officiated the service. The recorded bagpipe selections were “Amazing Grace” and “Hallelujah”. The Logan VFW Post #6256 did the graveside military rites. Mike’s final resting place will be at Greenwood Cemetery in rural Logan, next to his granddaughter Star.
Service entrusted to Fouts Funeral Home. www.foutsfuneralhome.com
