Douglas B. Johnson

Douglas B. Johnson, 89, of Staples, passed away September 6, 2018, at Lakewood Health System Care Center, Staples.

Arrangements are being made with Taylor Funeral Home in Staples.

Interment will be held at Camp Ripley Military Cemetery near Little Falls at a later date.

Doug was born January 21, 1929 to Albert and Luella Johnson in Granite Falls. Doug attended and graduated from Staples High School in 1947. He was very active in sports, excelling in several during his high school and college career. For several years he also enjoyed playing summer league baseball. 

He joined the U.S. Air Force upon graduating from St. Olaf College and was stationed in Japan from 1951 to 1955. He taught and coached at Ada High School. During his tenure there, his basketball team reached the Minnesota State High School League State Basketball Tournament. Doug left Ada to pursue a master’s degree at Augsburg College. After completing his master’s program he resumed his teaching and coaching career at Staples High School in 1966.  He married Donna Sussenguth in 1975. They resided at Lake Shamineau before moving to Staples, where Doug taught physical education and health and coached basketball and golf at until 1980. In 1981, he transferred from Staples High School to work as the Adaptive Physical Education Specilist at Freshwater Education District until his retirement in 1986. He enjoyed the lake, golf, crafts and sports.

Doug is survived his wife; one brother, Kenneth of Fort Smith, Arkansas and many nieces and nephews.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials may be given to your own personal charity.

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