Philip Richard Johnson

Philip Johnson, a man whose humor and kindness touched all who knew him, passed away on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a valiant battle with dementia. He was 81 years old.

Phil married the love of his life, Diane Vorwalske, on May 2, 1964, in Wausau. From that day forward, he lived the vows he made—always putting Diane first, caring for her “in sickness and in health,” and being her steadfast partner through every chapter of life.

Philip was hired by the Marathon County Sheriff’s Department in 1964 as a Patrol Deputy. He was promoted to the rank of Detective 9 years later. He retired as a Detective in 1998, serving 34 years to the citizens of Marathon County. One of his proudest accomplishments was graduating from training at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, where he gained valuable skills and made lifelong friends. In retirement, after vowing never to go back to law enforcement, he worked as a Prisoner Transport Officer for the Marathon County Sheriff’s Department.

He was a devoted father and grandfather, known to his grandsons for his playful advice to “always keep a little bit of kid in you.” His children often heard from others how kind and good a man their father was—a true gentleman who valued good manners and led by example.

Phil’s generosity was quiet but steadfast. Whether shoveling a neighbor’s driveway without being asked or lending a hand wherever needed, he never sought recognition—he simply believed in doing the right thing.

He cherished time spent “up north” at the hunting cabin (the Y-Shack) in Tomahawk, WI. There, he passed on his love for the outdoors to his grandsons, teaching them about hunting, fishing, and even how to enjoy a good fireworks display. The peace of nature and the joy of family time were treasures to him.

Phil loved being social and enjoyed a good beer, fish fry, playing cards, putzing around the house, collecting cast iron, and sharing a good laugh. He was an active member of Grace United Church of Christ in Wausau.

Above all, Phil was a man of integrity, a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, and a friend to many. He will be deeply missed, but the lessons he taught, the laughter he inspired, and the love he gave will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Diane; daughter, Michele (Benjamin) Fandre; son, Brad (Dorie) Johnson; grandsons Alex (Mackenzie) Fandre, Adam (Erin) Fandre, Gus Johnson, Jack Johnson; brother Thomas (Joanne) Johnson, sister-in-law Gail Johnson, brother-in-law Randy (Barb) Vorwalske, several nieces and nephews; many dear friends, and the guys at the Y-Shack. He was preceded in death by: parents Albert & Laurianna (Maynard) Johnson, sister Dagmar Kammerer, brother Joseph (Bill) Lewis, sister-in-law Marge Lewis, and brother Carleton Johnson 

A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 PM on Monday, August 18, 2025, at Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 2809 Jelinek Avenue, Weston. Pastor Lance Hoelscher will officiate. Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM until the time of the service at Ascend.

Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Weston is assisting Philip's family with arrangements. Condolences may be shared at www.ascendweston.org.