Ricky A. Johnson, age 72 of Spooner, WI passed away on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Essentia St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth, MN.

Ricky A. Johnson was born March 21, 1953 in Bristol, WI the son of Kenneth and Lois (Wienke) Johnson. Ricky’s family moved to Spooner, WI when he was a freshman in high school. While in high school he was an avid football and baseball player. He graduated from Spooner High School in 1971.

Ricky attended college for a time and then went to work for the railroad. Ricky then opened his own tavern called Big Boys Bar in Spooner. He operated the tavern for several years and then began working as a school bus driver for the Spooner School District where he found his passion for driving the special needs bus.

Ricky enjoyed watching all kinds of sports and had great knowledge of sporting facts. His favorite pastime was going fishing on his boat, the Jena Lynn, on Lake Superior. He loved his family dearly and will be remembered for his generosity towards those around him.

Ricky is survived by his daughter, Jena Hammersberg of Spooner; two granddaughters, Joie and Hailie Hammersberg; mother, Lois Fox; one brother, Arvid (Amy) Johnson of Spooner; one sister, Kaye Thompson of Spooner; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth; two daughters, Ali and Dana Johnson; one sister, Lori; and the mother of his children, Julie Johnson.

A time of gathering will be held for Ricky on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until noon at the Spooner Funeral Home. A brief prayer service will be held at 11:45 a.m. on Friday to conclude the time of gathering. Honorary pall bearers will include: Gene Bethel, Jim Bethel, Paul Zollver, Jerry Thompson, Chris Thompson, Matt Thompson, and Arvid Johnosn. A celebration of life will be held at Tony’s Riverside following the gathering.

Last Update: Nov 10, 2025 8:53 am CST