James E. Johnson, Jr. 93, passed away December 16, 2025, surrounded by his loving children at the VA Hospital in Iron Mountain, MI. He was born on August 11, 1932, to James E. Sr. and Evelyn (nee Higgins) in Tennessee. Jim was a proud Army veteran having served in Korean War and earned two bronze star medals. He married Sharon J. Joire on June 27, 1953, and together they raised 5 children. Jim was a dedicated businessman running his own small business breeding wax worms. The family moved several times over the years until 1972 when they settled in Union Grove. He was always resourceful and able to solve any problem, seemingly making something out of nothing. When he had a topic of interest to explore, he would devote 110% of his attention to learning everything he could about it. He was known for his sense of humor and making things fun. In his free time, Jim reveled in the outdoors and enjoyed singing, especially barbershop style and, more recently, country music. He loved spending time at St. Robert's Parish and singing in the choir.

James is survived by his children, Kathleen (Peter) Buisse, James Johnson, Sherry (Tim) Allen, and daughter-in-law, Lori Johnson; his grandchildren, Jason (Emily) Johnson, Mark Johnson (Erika Nelsen), Daniel (Trisha) Buisse, Brett (Valerie) Buisse, and Thomas (Allison) Buisse, Rachelle (Austin Milas) Johnson, Gabrielle Johnson, Claudia Allen; great-grandchildren, Maggie, Charles, Eloise, Briggs, Edmond, Clara, Andy, Audrey, Bennett, Jack, Lilah and Katie; and his sisters, Elizabeth Hanley and Clara DeLaurier.

James was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon; their sons, Robert and David; their grandson, Ben Johnson; and his parents, James and Evelyn.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 23 from 11 am to 12 noon at Miller-Reesman Funeral Home. Prayer service will begin at 12 noon. Burial with full military honors will begin 1 pm at the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery.