Donald L. Johannsen, age 88, died September 13, 2003 at Crestview Nursing Home, Columbia Heights, MN. His parents preceded him in death along with brother, Burdette; sisters, Eva and Edith and his beloved wife of 63 years, Florence.

He is survived by daughter, Janis Bromenschenkel; son, Rodney Johannsen (Diane); grandchildren, Michele Langan (Matthew), Michael Johannsen, Ryan Donald Bromenschenkel; former son-in-law, Jim Bromenschenkel; brother, Gerald Johannsen (Dorothy); many nieces, nephews and other loving relatives and friends.

Don was a dreamer and a doer. He was born in Sutherland, IA May 14, 1915. In 1940, he moved to San Diego, CA where he and Florence were married. he volunteered for service, joined the Navy and served as a Sea Bee in WWII, a member of the First Contingent to set foot in Japan. He was a 25 year employee of Qwest, formerly Pacific Bell and Northwestern Bell. In mid-life, he and Florence moved from San Diego to their native Iowa where he fulfilled a life long dream to farm. Don dealt with the challenge of cancer in middle age by learning to fly. He subsequently built his own airplane which he flew until age 69. His love of flying inspired his son and grandson, Michael, who both became pilots and built their own airplanes. Sports was a passion of Don's. He was an excellent athlete and sports fan who faithfully attended grandson Ryan's sporting events during high school and college. Ever an encourager and motivator, he took great pride in his entire family and encouraged each to strive and fulfill their potential in life and careers. He felt truly blessed to have seen all his grandchildren obtain college degrees and go on to successful careers. Michele as a pathologist assistant, Ryan as an Army captain and Michael as an account manager. During his life time he helped build a church, served on church boards and volunteered in his community. Donald spent the last 4 years at the Crestview Nursing Home; many loving and caring staff and volunteers assisted and encouraged him during these years and will remember fondly his enduring smile and sense of humor.

Funeral service 11 am, Wednesday at the Washburn- McReavy Columbia Heights Chapel. Interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Washburn-McReavy Columbia Heights Chapel 4101 Central Av. NE 763-789-4436

Minneapolis Star Tribune 9/15/2003