Raymond Allen Johnson, age 77, a resident of Shell Lake, died on Saturday, October 29, 2022, at Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire with family at his side.

Ray was born on November 2, 1944 in Shell Lake to parents Leonard and Evelyn (Powell) Johnson, the youngest of four children. He was raised in Shell Lake and graduated from Shell Lake High School in 1962. He went on to the University of Wisconsin River Falls graduating in November 1968 with a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, majoring in history, with a minor in psychology. His first teaching position was with the school district of Fall Creek, Wisconsin and then the school district of Shell Lake where he taught for 31 years. He was a valued teacher and is often referred to by past students as their favorite teacher. He would always make time for an individual student to help them succeed in their education. His love of sports from his youth continued into adulthood and he also coached high school athletics.

He met the love of his life Deborah Ann Davenport and they were united in marriage on June 10, 1972 in Shell Lake. It was with great joy they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this past summer hosting a luncheon and dance with many friends and family in attendance.

Ever community minded, Ray served on the City Council of Shell Lake, the Shell Lake Housing Authority Board, had been an active member of the Shell Lake Lions Club and was an active member of the Sarona Methodist Church. Giving and helping others was his purpose and it was with great passion that he did so.

A bigger sports fan you could not find, especially if it was a Wisconsin team. From his local Lakers, to the Badgers, the Bucks, the Brewers and the Green Bay Packers Ray was always watching and cheering on his teams with Debby by his side. Hunting, fishing and being outdoors was a particular joy for Ray and his hunting camp friends held a special place in his heart.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife Debby, of Shell Lake; sister and brother-in-laws Leo Neuman, Marcy Johnson, Bill Taubman, Bruce and Diane Davenport; and nieces and nephews that he loved as dearly as if they were his own. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Valores, Dawn and Jerry.

A Celebration of Life for Ray will be held on Sunday, November 13, 2022 at the Sarona Methodist Church in Sarona at 2pm with Pastor Jean Waldron officiating. Visitation will be held on Sunday at the Church from 1-2pm. Interment will be at the Shell Lake Cemetery.

Last Update: Nov 08, 2022 6:24 am CST