Dean Johannsen

Dean Johannsen, loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully in his sleep September 4, 2021 at the age of 77.

A celebration of life will be held from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 18th at the Blue Grass American Legion.  Per Dean’s wishes, cremation rites were accorded and inurnment took place at Maysville Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the Blue Grass Medic EMS or to the Blue Grass Fire Department.

Dean, the son of Elmer and Irene (Knutsen) Johannsen, grew up on his parent’s farm outside Maysville, Iowa.  As a teen he enjoyed showing cattle and later worked hauling milk.  After meeting his wife Michele on a blind date, they were wed on Feb 13, 1965 at St Paul’s Lutheran Church.  Together they raised three children, Robyn, Scott and Jill.

Dean was drafted during the Vietnam War and served in the United States Army.  After first being stationed in Karlsruhe, Germany, where Michele and Robyn were able to join him, he was sent to Vietnam.

Following his time in the Army, Dean became a professional truck driver.  He drove for over 39 years hauling milk, livestock and over the road.

Always with a smile and cup of coffee, Dean enjoyed fishing, watching NASCAR, and most of all, spending time with his family and friends.  As a member of the Blue Grass chapter of the American Legion, he enjoyed the friendship of fellow veterans.  Always quick to enjoy conversation, often when asked where their Papa was, his grandsons would reply that he had found another friend to talk to.

Those left to honor Dean’s memory and life are his wife of 56 years, Michele, daughters Robyn (Jenn) Skipton and Jill Claeys; son, Scott Johannsen; and grandsons, Joshua Johannsen, Caleb Claeys, Jarrett Claeys; sister, Loretta (Tom) Phillips; sisters-in-law, Judy (Ron) Reasoner and Deb (Tim) McGrail; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Irene Johannsen; and a brother, Gary Johannsen.