Russell D. Johnson

Russell David Johnson, 63, of Topeka, passed away Sunday, January 23, 2022.

He was born August 27, 1958, in Topeka, Kansas, the son of Ronald and Marilyn (Apps) Johnson.

Russell graduated from Topeka High School in 1976. He attended KU and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Physics.

He was a self-employed contractor and worked for Kansas Department of Transportation.

Russell was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church of Topeka and he married Tresa E. Buchholz on May 29, 1982 at Trinity. He was her groom for 39 years.

Survivors include his wife, Tresa Johnson of Topeka, Kansas and numerous family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Randall D. Johnson.

Russell loved nature. While growing up, camping with his extended family was a highlight. He was active in the Boy Scouts and was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout on November 7, 1976. Russell was an Assistant Scout Leader with Troop #29. There were a variety of beloved pets over the years; some even went along on vacations! In addition, he assisted with wildlife rehabilitation and care.

Russ assisted his wife during her teaching career with special projects, activities and field trips. At Halloween, he did magic tricks for the students. He shared his talent of memorization and dressed up as an Old World storyteller from "The Night before Christmas." He portrayed other characters as well. Russell was a great Santa Claus! As Santa, he would visit classrooms in the school and go to the homes of family and friends.

Russell was a catalyst in putting together a free haunted house in an old Victorian home and at Trinity Hall. People came together for this event that "kids" of all ages delighted in. Many family and friends volunteered their time.

Russell was truly a Renaissance man with interests and skills in many areas. He did extraordinary carpentry and stone work. Russ was a train aficionado, built model rockets, was a diecast collector and a numismatist. Music greatly enriched Russell's life. He played the Baritone sax, guitar and other musical instruments. He was a member of the THS Marching Band, Trinity Band and Menninger Jazz Band.

Russ met health issues and life difficulties with strong faith and determination. He was a devoted husband, a caring talented man who will be greatly missed by many.

Honoring Russell's request, cremation is planned. A private memorial service will be held at 10:00 am, Saturday, February 5, 2022 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 725 SW Buchanan, Topeka, Kansas 66606. Services will be livestreamed on Zoom. For additional information, please contact Trinity Lutheran Church by e-mail: office@topekatlc.org or by phone at: 785-233-0767.

Interment will follow at 3:00 pm at Prospect Hill Cemetery in Blue Rapids, Kansas.

Dove Cremations and Funerals – Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Rd., Topeka, Kansas 66610 is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church – Youth Group, 725 SW Buchanan, Topeka, Kansas 66606 or charity of choice. Honor Russell by reconnecting with a friend or family member, reading a book to a child or helping an animal in need.

To leave a message of condolence for Russell's family, or to share a special memory of Russell, visit the guestbook below.