Lee “Skinny” Johnson, age 85, of Rice Lake, WI, died Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on August 6, 1940 in Ashland, WI to Nathaniel and Mary (Rogich) Johnson.

Lee graduated from Spooner High School in 1959 and then entered the United States Navy in 1959 and was later Honorably Discharged in 1966. He was also in the National Guards from 1974-1989. Lee was married to Carol Semm on June 16, 1962 in Shell Lake, WI. He owned and operated Johnson Printing for many years, worked for Rice Lake Chronotype and also worked for Lynndale’s Golf Course for over 20 years. He enjoyed golfing, hunting, going to sporting events, fishing, traveling, bowling and having family time. Lee received the Spirit Award from the Rice Lake Sports Hall of Fame in 2019 for his faithful attendance at Warrior girls and boys basketball games. He was an alderman for the city, a volunteer fire fighter, and supported the community on many events and projects.

He is survived by his loving wife, Carol Johnson; 3 children, Jeff (Kim) Johnson, Jim (Stephanie) Johnson and Jane Johnson; 9 grandchildren, Matthew (Annie), Devan (Kyle), Joshua, Zachary (Casey), Samantha (Sean), Tiler, Darian (April), Jessie (Ben) and Claire (Chandler); 14 grandchildren, Cooper, Lane, Harper, Claire, Declan, James, Abigail, Adeline, Lincoln, Miller, Griffin, Alivia, Averie, and Levi. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nathaniel and Mary Johnson.

Funeral Services will be at 1PM Saturday, August 23, 2025 at Appleyard’s Home for Funerals in Rice Lake, WI, Rev. Jon Cluppert officiating, with interment in the Sarona Cemetery, where Full Military Rites will be accorded him by Rice Lake Veteran Honor Guard. Visitation will be held from 11AM-1PM Saturday, August 23 at Appleyard’s Home for Funerals.

Last Update: Aug 15, 2025 7:26 am CDT