Larry Johnson

Larry LeRoy Johnson, the son of H. LeRoy and Ella (Kullberg) Johnson was born on December 12, 1945, in Storm Lake, Iowa. He was baptized and later confirmed at Faith Lutheran Church in Odebolt. Beginning in a one-room country schoolhouse in Boyer, he then attended high school at Odebolt-Arthur, where he excelled in track, earning several medals at the district and state level in long distance running. He graduated from Odebolt-Arthur High School in 1964. His pursuit of knowledge led him to the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls where he not only excelled academically but also served as a head resident. He proudly graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with an emphasis in teaching.

 After marrying Mary Gropper on July 18, 1970, the couple made their home in Harlan and were blessed with one daughter, Julie. Larry taught math at Steamboat Rock High School, Harlan Community High School and Shelby-Tennant High School. He also taught algebra at Iowa Western Community College. Following his teaching career, he worked for Agriland FS. He then worked as an agent for Farm Bureau Insurance, Shelby County Farmers Mutual Insurance Company, and retired from The Agency in Harlan. After retirement, Larry continued to share his skills through seasonal work at Agriland FS.

 Larry was a man of many passions. His love for gardening and fishing in Minnesota brought him immense joy throughout his life. He had a great love for visiting his farm near Boyer and enjoyed the many trips he took there. He also found happiness in driving his red convertible to various places and generously devoted his time to volunteering in local parades. A skilled painter, Larry poured his creativity into various remodeling projects. Larry lived a life filled with joy, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to his friends and family. Larry's sociable nature endeared him to everyone he met, and he found joy in engaging with others, especially during his visits to the wellness center and local watering holes throughout surrounding communities. Above all, he cherished making memories with his family, especially his granddaughters, Kathryn and Teresa. 

 Larry passed away on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at his home in Harlan at the age of 78 years, six months and eight days. 

 Larry was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Robert Johnson.

He is survived by his daughter, Julie (Dean) Johnson of Omaha, Nebraska; granddaughters: Kathryn Johnson and Teresa Johnson both of Omaha, Nebraska; Mary Johnson of Harlan; and other relatives and many friends. 

 His Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at the Therkildsen Center in Harlan with visitation prior to the service from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to the Petersen Family Wellness Center in Harlan.