In Loving Memory of Benjamin "Ben" Johnson

Benjamin William Johnson entered the presence of the Lord on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at Angels Grace Hospice in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin at age 79. He suffered with a difficult medical history including paraplegia due to a spinal cord infarct in 2018.  Ben was born on May 5,1944, in Racine, Wisconsin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin Llewelyn and Elaine (Gustine) Johnson, sister, Ann Ellen (Johnson) Tolbert, and son, Benjamin Daniel.

Ben grew up in Racine and Green Bay, WI, where he was an accomplished athlete in football, basketball and track. He attended Ripon College, Marquette University Dental School, and was awarded a Bachelor of Science Degree in Pharmacy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.  His career as a pharmacist included Trinity Memorial Hospital in Cudahy, WI, St. Luke's Hospital in Racine, WI, and St. Mary's Hospital in Racine, WI, where he also served as Systems Manager.  As a fourth-generation pharmacist, such was Ben's passion for pharmacy that three of his children became pharmacists at UW-Madison as well.

He was the beloved husband of Dale Anne Johnson for over 52 years. Their union on December 27,1970, was a testament to their enduring commitment and deep love. Ben is survived by his wife, Dale Anne (Zernov) Johnson, his children Kristen Faith Vietzen (Paul), the late Ben (Rachael), Matthew James, and Nathan Noah (Sara). Ben leaves behind a legacy of love and faith that will continue through his grandchildren: Ellie Faith, Nora Grace, and Sadie Hope Vietzen; Addie Grace, Taylor Faith, and Lola Marie Johnson; and Jonah Benjamin, William Paul, and Vivienne Rose Johnson.

Ben's true passion lay in his unwavering faith in the Lord which he shared generously with those around him. He was dedicated to men's ministries and Bible studies, where his commitment to spreading the Word of God touched many lives. A true sports enthusiast, Ben found joy in playing and watching sports. He had a particular fondness for the UW Badgers. His enthusiasm for athletics was matched only by his love for people. A genuine people person, Ben had a remarkable gift for striking up conversations and connecting with others on a deep and meaningful level. His warm and welcoming spirit made him a beloved figure in his community.

One of Ben's greatest joys in life was spending time with his children and grandchildren. Whether attending sports events, sharing meals, or participating in family gatherings, he found immense joy in the company of his loved ones. His legacy lives on in the countless memories shared, the lessons taught, and the love he bestowed upon all who were fortunate enough to know him.

We will remember Ben for the incredible life he lived, the faith he shared, and the love that continues to echo in the hearts of those he leaves behind. He is now home at peace in the presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We are assured of this because of his repentance of sin and trust in Jesus Christ for salvation.

Special thanks to Angels Grace Inpatient Hospice in Oconomowoc for their exemplary care of Ben and our family in his final days.

A visitation will be held at Hartson Funeral Home on Friday, December 22, 2023 from 9:30 am to 11:30 am. Funeral Service 11:30 am. (Please note that these are the new adjusted times since being published in the paper.)