James Johnson

James “JJ” A. Johnson, 57, of Lancaster, died on Tuesday, December 9, 2014 in Cana, Virginia of natural causes. Memorial services will be at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, December 18, 2014 at the Melby Funeral Home & Crematory, Platteville. Friends may call from 3:00 p.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the James “JJ” Johnson Memorial Fund. Online condolences can be made at www.melbyfh.com

James was born on April 22, 1957 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Delmore and Louisa “Mary” (Kazcinski) Johnson. He graduated from Platteville High School in 1975 and enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. He took great pride in serving his country in true Marine style. He returned home and worked for Rural Excavating (Lonsberg's) for many years. He later drove for other companies, most recently, for Crete Carriers out of Omaha, Nebraska. His nieces and nephews were his life, following and keeping up with their activities. He was an avid race fan, NASCAR, especially following Matt Kenseth, dirt track racing. He was a huge fan of the Chicago Bears. He is survived by his six brothers, Jeff (Kathy) Johnson of Lancaster; Kevin Johnson of North Carolina, David (Maria) Johnson of Genoa, IL; Steve (Doris) Johnson of North Carolina; Chris (Diane) Johnson of Davenport, IA; Paul Johnson of Helena, MT; two sisters, Linda Schroeder of Belvidere, IL; Shari Johnson of Baraboo, WI; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, niece, Selena Johnson, and nephew, Burdette Schroeder, II.