Ken Johnson, age 81, passed away on Wednesday, May 10, 2023. He was born October 20, 1941 in Weymouth, Massachusetts to Harold F. & Marjorie Johnson.

He was raised in Hanover, Massachusetts and then moved to Marshfield, Massachusetts where he was active in high school sports, 4H, and his church. After graduation, his interest and love of science and exposure in 4H, especially his interest in his sheep project, led him to enroll at the University of Massachusetts at the Stockbridge School of Agriculture. From there, he advanced onto The Ohio State University where he received his bachelor's degree and finally culminated with his master's degree from University of Connecticut.

After graduation, Ken embarked on a career in quality control and worked in several chains. Ken's professional career took him around the world as a member of the National Live Stock and Meat Board, now known as National Cattlemen's Beef Association.

Ken's lifelong dedication to the meat industry earned him numerous awards and honors including being the first class inducted into the Meat Industry Hall of Fame. He was widely respected as a leader and mentor, and his contributions to the field will be felt for generations to come.

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who spent his days proud of what his family was accomplishing. He married his high school sweetheart, Dawn, on September 7, 1963. They have two children, Mark and Beth, who bring them so much joy. With his family, he enjoyed traveling and supporting his children in their endeavors. He was active in the DuPage 4H program as well as coaching for the Wheaton Park District. He was involved in various YMCA programs and later worked with Klein Creek Farm. He looked forward to visits from his grandchildren where he instilled in them a love for desserts and sports and a tolerance for Western movies. He was a loyal The Ohio State University alumnus and Buckeye fan to the end. O-H…I-O

He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Dawn; his children Mark (Amy) Johnson & Elizabeth (Michael) Pomatto; his grandchildren Emily (Brandon) Howard, Andrea (fiancé Grant Hageman) Pomatto, Avery (fiancé Matthew Modro) Bach, Michael Pomatto and Macy Pomatto; and one great-granddaughter Faye Howard. Also survived by many nieces & nephews.

He was preceded in death by his brother Melvin (the late Beverly) Johnson; his niece Ellen Gustafson; and his parents.

A visitation will be held at Hultgren Funeral Home, 304 N. Main St., Wheaton, IL 60187 on Sunday, May 21, 2023, from 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed to The H. Kenneth Johnson Legacy Recognition Fund, American Meat Science Association, 302 S. Platte Clay Way, Kearney, MO 64060, or the Wheaton Park District, 102 E. Wesley St., Wheaton, IL 60187. If you prefer to donate online, please visit this link: https://meatscience.org/amsa-council/mentor-recognition-program/current-mentor-and-legacy-recognition-funds/kjohnson

Family and friends may sign a guest book at hultgrenfh.com. For more information, please call Hultgren Funeral Home at 630-668-0027.