Darrell D. Johnson

Darrell D. Johnson, age 92, of Watertown, SD, passed away on Friday, December 29, 2023, at the local hospital.  Visitation will be from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel in Watertown.  

Private family burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Watertown.

Darrell was born on March 10, 1931, in Watertown, SD, to Frank and Violet (Ballou) Johnson.  A proud graduate of Watertown High School, Darrell’s passion for building and his keen eye for detail led him to a fulfilling career as a home construction builder.  Through his work, he not only built houses but also helped create countless memories and homes where families would grow and thrive.  Darrell served as a member and President of Dakota Sportsman Inc. for many years.

On December 28, 1950, Darrell married Juanita C. Allen in Watertown, SD.  To this union they raised nine children in Watertown. 

Darrell was a man of many interests and talents.  An avid outdoorsman, he found solace and joy in hunting and fishing, activities that not only brought him closer to nature but also provided cherished moments with friends and family.  He received his claim to fame by starring in the TV series “Hunting in South Dakota with Darrell.”  His artistic side flourished in his retirement, as he turned to woodwork, meticulously carving ducks and birds that reflected his love for wildlife.  Each piece was a work of art, embodying Darrell’s patience and attention to detail.

Dancing was another of Darrell’s great joys in his younger days, especially when had the opportunity to sweep his bride across the dance floor.  Their love was a dance in itself, a harmonious partnership that endured through decades.  When Juanita passed away in 2018, Darrell’s kitchen talents were equally renowned, particularly his baking.  His cookies were the highlight of many gatherings, and he delighted in sharing them with all who knew him.  Darrell cherished many memories with his grandchildren playing cards with them around the table. He enjoyed watching sports, especially the Watertown Arrows, Minnesota Vikings, and Minnesota Twins.

Described by those who knew him best as adventurous, loving, and generous, Darrell lived his life with a zest that was contagious.  His favorite quote is “Give without remembering, take without forgetting.”  He approached every day as a new opportunity to explore, to give, and to love more deeply. 

Darrell is survived by his children, Randy (Leanne) Johnson of Watertown, Kurt Johnson of Watertown, Cheryl (Michael) Korbel of Willow Lake, SD, Cindy (Madeline) Marquardt of OR, Roger (Connie) Johnson of Watertown, Mark (Lori) Johnson of Melbourne, FL, Carolyn (Bill) Ware of Grimes, IA, Connie Johnson of Watertown, and Frank (Jacque) Johnson of Watertown; 28 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; and one sister Dixie (Larry) Schnoor of Watertown.

Darrell was preceded in death by his wife, Juanita; his parents; one grandson Joseph Norman; one great-grandson Zachary Michael; two brothers Clayton and Donnie; one sister Margie Christensen; one brother-in-law Lee Christensen; two sisters-in-law Dorothy and Mary; and special friend Brian Keiser.

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