Richard Julian Johnson, age 86, of Blair, died on Wednesday, September 3, 2014 in the Pine View Care Center in Black River Falls.

Richard was born on December 25, 1927 in Larkin Valley, rural Blair to Julius and Cassie (Nelson) Johnson. He attended the Larkin Valley School and graduated from the Blair High School in 1945. Richard attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Life Sciences and graduated with honors. Richard had one his papers published.

Richard married Hilma Annala on November 12, 1949 in Madison.

Richard taught World War II veterans in the farm program in the Gilmanton School District and managed the Johnson Poultry Farms in Blair. He also worked as an inspector for the USDA prior to his retirement.

Richard enjoyed working in genealogy and helped other people find their roots. He also enjoyed travels to Norway, Finland and parts of the United States. Richard designed and built parade floats for the Blair Cheese Festival and many communities in Trempealeau County and as far away as Greenwood. He was always ready to help anyone that needed any kind of help.

Richard is survived by his wife Hilma; four children, Duane Johnson of Madison, Sharon Johnson of Davenport, IA, Carol Johnson of Mount Horeb and Elizabeth (Michael) Bradley of Sauk City; five grandchildren, Cassie, Emily, Teresa, Matthew and Sara; several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by a sister, Margaret Plank and infant twin brothers.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 9, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. in the Blair Lutheran Church West with burial in the Zion Lutheran Cemetery both in Blair. Pastor Barbara Bruneau will officiate. Friends may call one hour prior to the service.

The Jack Funeral Home in Blair is assisting the family with arrangements.