Cover photo for Robert Dale Johnson's Obituary
Robert Dale Johnson Profile Photo
In Memory Of
Robert Dale Johnson
1958 2024

Robert Dale Johnson

January 31, 1958 — July 23, 2024

Robert Dale Johnson, 66, of Topeka, passed away on Tuesday, July 23, 2024.

He was born on January 31, 1958, in Ottawa, Kansas, the son of Delbert and Shirley (Hunter) Johnson. He received his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Kansas State University in 1984.

For 38 years, Robert owned and operated Paw Prints Animal Hospital, where he was known for his exceptional care and dedication. Dr. Johnson was a valued member of the Topeka Veterinary Medical Association and was renowned for his thoughtful practice of handwriting sympathy notes for each pet that passed away under his care.

On October 15, 2009, Robert married Julie Lynn Finney in St. Lucia, West Indies. Their union was a testament to true love, and Julie survives him, wishing for just one more day together. They often joked every year on their anniversary that he would sign up for another year together. They were not just best friends but soulmates.

Robert is also survived by his children: Sarah (Nathan) Kimberly Chang, Matthew (Aubrey) Connor Iles, Sarah Amber Iles, Nathan Aaron Iles, Ethan Hunter Johnson, and Dominic Michael Johnson. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Kim Hunter Johnson.

A beloved husband, father, and friend, Robert cherished his family and pets. His passions included fishing with his son and daughter-in-law, making pickles for his daughter, and keeping his family connected by sending constant pictures of the pets to Nathan, who is stationed at Fort Eisenhower. He treasured every moment spent with his two youngest sons and was immensely proud to walk his oldest daughter down the aisle. Robert brought joy to all who knew him, filling each conversation with genuine happiness. An exceptional gardener, he was known for his flourishing vegetables, which he generously shared with loved ones. He could often be seen riding his golf cart to deliver fresh produce to neighbors and friends.

Robert's departure came far too soon, and we are left to cherish and honor his legacy of selflessness, kindness, and unwavering joy.

A memorial ceremony will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at Dove Cremations and Funerals Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Rd, Topeka, KS. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the ceremony to visit and share memories, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Interment will take place following the services at Oakwood Cemetery in Baldwin City, KS. Robert's service will be livestreamed at the scheduled service time. Click here to view the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Donate Here .

To share a memory of Robert or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.
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Service Schedule

Past Services

Visitation

Thursday, August 8, 2024

9:00 - 10:00 am (Central time)

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Memorial Service

Thursday, August 8, 2024

Starts at 10:00 am (Central time)

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