Obituary

Friday morning August 19th, Curtis “Curt” Johnson of Rockford, Illinois passed peacefully into eternity and into the arms of Jesus.

Curt was born to Clarence and Esther Johnson (Nelson) in 1940 in Rockford, Illinois. He graduated from East High School in Rockford in 1958, marrying his high school sweetheart Gayle Johnson (Ostrom) at Temple Baptist Church in 1961. Together, Curt and Gayle raised two children, Carol and Rich, and celebrated 60 years of marriage in 2021.

Curt was a successful realtor, co-owning Johnson Maurer Real Estate with Jerry Maurer for 45 years, many knew Curt throughout his career as personable, easy going and hard working.

An avid outdoorsman, Curt enjoyed spending time at his cabin on Long Lake in Phelps, Wisconsin, an area of Wisconsin he grew up spending summers with his family from the time he was a child. Curt shared his love of the Northwoods with his children and grandchildren, teaching them to fish and kayak, both things he loved. Curt also loved backpacking and camping, taking trips throughout the American West and to Isle Royale National Park.

A man of many interests, you could also find Curt boating, golfing, rowing and following his beloved White Sox, raising his children as avid Sox and baseball fans. In retirement, Curt took up wood turning, creating beautiful bowls for his family and friends he shared generously. He was known to build and enjoy a good fire, and loved listening to Dixieland Jazz.

More than anything, Curt loved his family. A loving husband, father and grandfather- “Papa”, he was a great provider and gave generously. He is survived by his wife Gayle (Ostrom) Johnson, daughter Carol and husband Brad Hemze and their children; Brooke, Anna, Erin (Fiancé Lucas Diaz) and Nate. His son Rich and wife Shannon (Scanlon) Johnson and their children; Katie, Cullen and Piper. His sister Connie Nordmoe and significant other Jim Bishoff.

A private celebration of life is planned for family. Memorial contributions can be made to Mercy Hospice and The Salvation Army.

“Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.”

2 Corinthians 4:16