K. Leon “Swede” Johnson

K. Leon “Swede” Johnson, age 84, of Olena, Illinois, passed away at 11:40 a.m. Saturday April 20, 2019 at his home.  He was born August 15, 1934 in Monmouth, Illinois, the son of Carl and Ida Ruth Johnson.  On January 6, 1957, he married Carol Larson in Stronghurst.
Swede was a veteran of the United States Army.  He retired from J.I. Case Company in Burlington.  Earlier in life he worked as a feed salesman for Farm Service, served as Stronghurst Township Road Commissioner, worked for Santa Fe Railroad, and also helped his dad on the family farm.  He was an avid sports fan and followed the Cubs, Bears, Blackhawks,  Bulls, and the Fighting Illini.  He loved hunting with his grandchildren, and teasing his friends and family.  He was a member of the Bethel Lutheran Church in Stronghurst.
Survivors include his wife, one daughter, Patty (Terry) Gough of Morning Sun, IA, three sons, Mike Johnson of Jordan, MN, John Johnson of Blue Springs, MO, Tom Johnson of Stronghurst, eight grandchildren, Sarah Doering, Lizzie Johnson, Sarah Harr, Justin Johnson, Jared Johnson, Karissa Johnson, Christy Humphrey, Chad Stephens, and one great granddaughter, Tomi Elizabeth Doering.  He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Ronnie Johnson, and one grandson, Bradley Johnson.
Visitation will be from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Stronghurst. The funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday April 25, 2019 at Bethel Lutheran Church in Stronghurst, with Rev. David Vidler officiating.  Burial will follow in the Stronghurst Cemetery.  A memorial fund has been established for the Bethel Lutheran Church.  Please visit banksandbeals.com to sign the guest book and leave a condolence.