Donna J. Johnson, age 89, of St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at United Pioneer Home, Luck, Wisconsin.

Donna was born on August 17, 1936, in Saint Croix Falls, Wisconsin, to Bert and Marie (Nelson) Patrin. She graduated from St. Croix Falls High School and married Richard Johnson in May of 1954. They spent the next 68 years together, through many ups and downs, full of hard work and the simple joys of country living.

For several years, Donna and Richard owned and operated DJ’s Café in Amery, Wisconsin. Throughout her working years, Donna also worked at Fabritec, cooked at the Dallas House, and later handled the paperwork for the family business until her retirement.

In her early years, Donna developed a passion for ceramics and taught others. Donna and Richard shared a long life, enjoying camping, fishing, playing cards, trips to the casino, and spending time outdoors. Donna especially loved it when they moved to the country and had a small hobby farm. Upon retirement, you could find Donna tending to her flowers and gardens or in her kitchen baking and cooking. She will be dearly missed by many.

Donna is survived by her children, Debbie (Wesley) Adams, Ricky (Pam) Johnson, Chris (Clarissa) Johnson; daughter-in-law, Nancy Johnson; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister, Sharon (Richard) Wassberg; brother, Peter (Mary) Patrin; brother-in-law, Adrian Poynter; many nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Donna is preceded in death by parents, Bert and Marie Patrin; husband, Richard; son, Curtis; sisters, Phyllis Poynter, Betty (Bob) Brust, and Ruth (Lawrence) Donaghue; and grandchildren, Walter, Tom, Teddy, Tony, and April.

Per Donna’s wishes, no public services will be held.

Last Update: Jul 14, 2026 8:28 am CDT