Dennis L. Johnson

Dennis L. Johnson, age 63, of Lynch, passed away Monday, Nov. 28, 2011, at the Niobrara Valley Hospital in Lynch.

Graveside services were held at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2011, at the Alford Cemetery  southwest of Monowi with Rev. Donald Kros officiating.

Pallbearers were Brad Otte, Dean Mackeprang, Jim Abbenhaus, Tim Nolan, Larry Moeller and Ronnie Beckmann.

Honorary pallbearers were Les Lorenz, Kelly Konken, Chad Strom, Richard Schrunk, Dan Otte, Roger Whitwer, Darrell Nolan, Dan Nolan, Casey Heiser and Gail Heiser.

Brockhaus Funeral Home in Spencer was in charge of arrangements.

Dennis, son of Archie and Evelyn (Overholt) Johnson, was born on Jan. 22, 1948, in Osmond. He attended and graduated from Creighton Public School. Two years later, on May 15, 1968, he married Barbara Smith in Yankton, SD. After their marriage, Dennis and his new bride moved to his family farm northeast of Creighton where they raised cattle, hogs and farmed. Dennis and Barbara were blessed with four children, Douglas, Daniel, Alisha and Dustin.

In 1983, Dennis took ownership of the Verdigre Livestock Market in Verdigre. His family lived in Verdigre and enjoyed their time there until he decided it was time to move west to Lynch in 1992. They purchased the Sundowner Bar, which they were currently operating. After settling into Lynch, Dennis purchased a small farm northwest of town where he continued to enjoy ranch life and raise cattle.

Throughout the years, Dennis maintained a realtor license, served as a notary public and sold crop and hail insurance. He spent many years as a cattle buyer, farmer and rancher. Dennis was known by everyone far and wide, as he loved going to cattle sales and farm auctions. He enjoyed conversations with friends, a drive in the country and an occasional card game and roll of the dice.

Dennis's pride and joy were his grandchildren. They could do no wrong and his eyes would shine everytime he was around them. He loved helping them anticipate the birth of a new calf or baby pig and enjoyed their help when it was time to round up cattle.

He was diagnosed with cancer 11 days prior to his death. He will always be admired for his courage and acceptance of his disease in such a short time, and know that death was a part of life.

Dennis was quoted as saying, "Even though I was dealt a losing hand, I'm still going to come out a winner." This statement proved itself true when the good Lord called another 'ole' cowboy home. He will be greatly missed by all those blessed to know him.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Barbara; sons, Douglas and Dustin; and daughter, Alisha and husband Brock and their children, Mykah, Mariah, Brook and Ruby, all of Lynch.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Archie and Evelyn; a son, Daniel; and a sister, Darlene.