Donald Johnson

Donald Earl Johnson Sr., 91, of Pekin, Illinois, passed away peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by family, on August 3, 2025.

He was born on January 31, 1934, in Peoria, Illinois, to Florence Gladys Hand and his stepfather, Joseph Johnson. Don attended Manual High School and proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. Don retired in 2000 from the Illinois Department of Transportation, where he worked as District Bridge Foreman. Throughout his career, he held numerous leadership roles, including President of Roofers Local 69 (1952), President of the South Towners Association (1971), and Teamsters Steward of Local 62. He was also a licensed commercial pilot, flying for pleasure from 1977 until his passing. He was married to Joyce Billerbeck and later to Joan Johnson for nearly 50 years. Together, they built a strong and loving partnership rooted in respect, laughter, and a shared sense of adventure. Their bond was evident to all who knew them. Don and Joan loved to travel and explore new places. Whether flying across the country, taking spontaneous road trips, or enjoying peaceful getaways, their adventures together were among Don’s greatest joys in life. He also took great pride in being a grandfather and great-grandfather. Don cherished time spent with his grandchildren—Michelle Walraven, Donnie Johnson, Nicole Gilinsky, Jyssica West, and Austin Danz—and delighted in watching them grow, supporting their dreams, and celebrating their milestones. His great-grandchildren—Lotus Gilinsky, Zen Gilinsky, and Landon West—and bonus great-grandchildren—Connor and Ru—brought him endless joy and laughter, and he always made time to share a story, a joke, or a lesson with them.

Don was a former member of the Amvets Post 64, American Legion, Moose Lodge, South Side Business Men’s Club, and the Fon Du Lac Senior Golf Club. He valued community, friendship, and staying active throughout his life.

He is survived by his loving wife, Joan Johnson; two sons, Donald Johnson Jr; and  Ronald O. Grimm (Erika); and two daughters,  Amy L. Fuhrman (James), and Michelle A. Edwards (Bill). He was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Cindy Walraven, and his daughter-in-law Linda Johnson.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory in Pekin, IL, with Pastor Dave Craig officiating. A visitation will take place one hour prior, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, West Peoria, IL with Military Honors provided by the United States Air Force and Tazewell Area Ceremonial Team.

Don will be remembered for his strong work ethic, sense of duty, adventurous spirit, and deep love for his family. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who had the honor of knowing him.

In honor of Donald’s life, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.