Sidney Albert Johnson, age 97, died peacefully on March 13, 2023.

He was born on October 15, 1925 in Rice Lake.

Sid graduated from Rice Lake High School in 1943. He joined the U.S. Marine Corps and fought in World War II in the Pacific Theater. He married Carolyn Otto on August 7, 1948, celebrating their 74th anniversary last year. Sid worked in the grocery industry until his retirement from Marketplace Foods. For 75 years, Sid was actively involved in the American Legion, serving as Commander, Adjutant, and other positions. He was a member of the Honor Guard since its inception in 1946. A cherished highlight in his life was the Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. in 2011. Sid was widely known for playing piano with many different bands all of his life. He was “The Piano Man” at Lehman’s, and played with the Nuto Dixieland Band and Jazznocracy, among others. He was an avid fisherman, and loved golf, bowling and camping, was a member of the Elk’s and Moose Club, and an active member of Bethany Lutheran Church. He is survived by his loving wife Carolyn, son Eric Johnson of Madison and daughter Sue Drew of Rice Lake, 4 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren and many well-loved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by son Thomas Johnson and daughter Sandra Hattleberg, brother Raymond Anderson and sister Dorothy Frisinger. The family would like to thank Heritage Lakeside for their loving care during his stay there. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Funeral Services will be held at 11AM Wednesday, June 7, 2023 at Bethany Lutheran Church in Rice Lake, Rev. Sue Eidahl officiating, with interment in Nora Cemetery in Rice Lake where Military Rites accorded him by the Rice Lake Veteran Honor Guard.

Visitation will be held from 9-11AM Wednesday, June 7 at the church.

Appleyard’s Home For Funerals in Rice Lake is assisting the family with the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers memorials would be appreciated to Never Forgotten Honor Flight in Wausau, WI.

Last Update: Mar 16, 2023 9:50 am CDT