Members of Norman Johnson’s family gathered at his home in Mineral Point Saturday to celebrate his 100th birthday and a state commendation.
Norman Johnson, a World War II veteran, chats with Mandie Eagan, quartermaster for the Mineral Point VFW.
Norman Johnson received more than the usual birthday greetings.
But then again, you only turn 100 once, so the state of Wisconsin congratulated him “on a century of love, positivity, and service to his country and community.”
Johnson appreciated the honor but made sure the state certificate of commendation mentioned that he accepted humbly, because he believes “that many others are equally, if not more, deserving of such an honor, and remains deeply grateful for the opportunity to have served his family, country, community, and Lord throughout his life.”
It’s been a wonderful life, he said. “He is walking history,” said son Dallas Johnson, who marvels at the stories of the Great Depression and World War II.
His dad taught him how to fix the house and car by having him help, he said, and he now “does the things my father would do.”
“He’s always been a very good role model. He’s friendly, kind and willing to help other people,” said daughter Marsha Day. “Every day was a family day.”
He is also funny and so positive that whenever a negative thought surfaced, he would say “that’s enough of that.”
Born in Blanchardville on June 26, he went to Mineral Point High School.
He served in World War II from 1944 to 1946 and was part of one of the first units sent to Hiroshima following the dropping of the atomic bomb.
He met Marilyn Johnson of Dodgeville in 1946 and they were married for 72 years until her death in 2020.
Their relationship was focused on forgiveness and family, Marsha Day said. “Mom was such a sweetheart, a lovely lady,” who loved being a stayat-home mom.
They have four daughters, four sons, 16 grandchildren, 13 greatgrandchildren and three great-greatgrandchildren, some of whom were playing ball and tag just before the commendation ceremony outside his home.
“They’re the best,” Norman Johnson said. “I’m so proud of my family, I can’t say enough. I’m the happiest man in the country because I’m a Christian. It’s a blessing beyond imagination.”
Their grandpa asks what they’ve been doing and takes them fishing. “He’s wise,” said grandson Brady Day. “The whole family thinks he’s pretty cool.”
The certificate of commendation said he has “enjoyed a full life filled with camping, traveling to visit family throughout the United States, painting, golfing, working as an auto mechanic, and maintaining a remarkable habit of walking every morning for 50 years.”
Just before Rep. Todd Novak presented the state commendation signed by Gov. Tony Evers, Sen. Howard Marklein and himself, Johnson asked what Novak’s mother’s maiden name was, and determined they are related.
“He’s the best man in the world,” said son Dan Johnson. When he tells his father about building projects he is working on, he asks ‘Where did you learn all that stuff.’ “And I say, from you.”
