David William Johnson

David William Johnson, 61, passed away on January 26, 2025 at his home.  He was born on June 6, 1963 in Hayward, CA, to Kevin & Thelma Johnson, and was baptized and confirmed in the Catholic faith. He grew up in Pekin, IL, and married Kathleen Murphy of Farmersville on March 11, 1995.

He graduated from Southern Illinois University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1985 and worked as an Environmental Engineer and later as a Public Service Administrator for the Illinois Department of Public Health until his retirement in 2018. He was a licensed professional engineer. 

Dave was a lifelong hunter, fisherman and outdoor enthusiast.  He served as a Hunter Safety Instructor for many years.  He seldom left the woods empty-handed due to his expertise.  He passionately protected the woods and wilds of our country.

Dave loved his Brittanys, of which he raised, trained and loved many, including: Sham, Willy, Max, Jesse, Josey and Lucy.  He was a leader in the Heart of Illinois Brittany Club and worked to host field trials. He kept the club supplied with pigeons that he trapped all over the Springfield area.

Dave loved traveling with Kathy to experience the world. They went to Italy in Fall 2019, and he traveled often with family and friends to hunting destinations.

If you spent any time with Dave he would surely invite you to join him in a taste of wine, either from his own vintages or commercial, raising a toast to someone or something special.

He was always a happy, optimistic soul, ready to help anyone who needed his assistance.  His love and devotion to his family and Kathy’s family was evident in his selfless service to us all. His infectious laugh warmed everyone’s heart!

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Kevin and Thelma Johnson.

Dave is survived by his devoted wife Kathy, brothers: Terry Johnson of Guffey, CO, Chuck (Donna) Johnson of Albuquerque, NM, sisters: Pat Schmillen of East Peoria, IL, Mary (Steve) LeGrand of Cape Girardeau, MO, 17 nieces and nephews and 21 great-nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made in Dave’s name to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Farmersville, Illinois, at 11:00 AM. A Visitation will be held an hour prior to the service starting at 10:00 AM. Fr. Florent Kanga will officiate. Burial will follow in Rovey Cemetery in Farmersville, Illinois.

Hough Memorial Home in Farmersville is in charge of arrangements.

Condolences may be left online at www.houghfuneralhome.com.