Clarence Arnold Johnson was born March 5, 1936, on the family farm at rural Ortonville to Peter C. and Rose (Zempel) Johnson. He was baptized and confirmed at Eidskog Lutheran Church. Clarence attended Ortonville High School through the eleventh grade. On January 4, 1958, he was married to Doris Mae Lange at Chokio and they were later divorced. He did construction and plumbing from 1959 to 1960. In 1960 he began farming and farmed until 1986. After this he worked for Jim Fasbender working with heavy equipment until Jim Fasbender sold his business. He then worked for Dru Tosel for several years. After this he was self-employed working with heavy equipment until failing health forced his retirement. Clarence lived in Ortonville with his special friend, Barb Lee, from 1988 until moving to Appleton in November of 2009. He was a long-time member of Eidskog Lutheran Church. He was also a member of Ducks Unlimited and Pheasants Forever. Clarence enjoyed hunting, socializing, story telling, good natured teasing, dancing, and collecting. He was known for never giving a "straight" answer to any question. Clarence died on Friday afternoon, August 20th, at Appleton Area Health Services. He had attained 74 years, 5 months, and 15 days of age. He is survived by two sons: Kevin (Lisa) Johnson of Appleton, and Steve Johnson (Holly Ruder) of Elrosa; six grandchildren: Sarah Johnson (Ernie Skluzacek), Derek Johnson (Jada Siegel), Michael Johnson (Bobbi Jo Otte), Eric Johnson (Ellen Burns), Amy Johnson (Jon Blomendal), and Kylie Johnson; one great-grandson, Beaux Clarence Johnson; Holly's children: Jaden, Sierra, and Adison Ruder; cousins, nieces, nephews, and other relatives. He is preceded in death by his parents; his son, Scott Allen; brother Palmer; two sisters: Darlene Kress and Dorothy Gregerson; and his special friend, Barb Lee.
