David Johnson Obituary, Cause of Death – Ward, South Dakota Community Mourns 73-Year-Old
The Ward, South Dakota community is mourning the unexpected passing of David Floyd Johnson, who died peacefully at his home on July 22, 2026, at the age of 73. His loss has left family, friends, and loved ones deeply saddened as they remember a man whose life was defined by hard work, compassion, and devotion to family and community.
Born during a February blizzard in 1953, David was the first child of Floyd and June (Frost) Johnson of Verdi, Minnesota. At the time of his birth, his father was serving in the Korean War. Upon Floyd’s return, the family settled on the farm where David grew up, working hard and playing hard as many farm boys of that era did. He loved everything outdoors—farming, hunting, fishing, exploring, and riding horses with his best friend, Eric.
David graduated from Verdi High School, where he excelled in math and science and participated in multiple sports, with cross country being his favorite. Even while in high school, he began farming and raising hogs, quickly earning a reputation for his natural ability with animals. His family often teased him as an “animal whisperer.” Caring for the land and wildlife became a lifelong priority, and he remained active in conservation efforts, DNR projects, and sportsman’s clubs, hosting many friends and family for pheasant and deer hunts on his land.
In addition to farming, David worked alongside his cousin Gary at Quist Moving and Storage throughout the years and was active in local politics. Known for his love of dancing, he attended teen dances at the Showboat, singles’ dances in midlife, and old-time dances later in life, always making new friends along the way. His family and friends remember him as someone who took the time to keep in touch and nurture relationships.
As he transitioned out of active farming, David planted large vegetable gardens, sharing his harvest generously with others. He especially treasured working with his nephews, Wesly and Dawson, as they partnered with him on his farmland and helped around his farmstead.
David is lovingly remembered by his siblings, Connie (Larry) Rew, Tedd (Joan) Johnson, Kathleen (Kevin) Thies, and Glenn (Sherri) Johnson; nieces, Abby (Arturo) Martinez, Heidi (Rance) Guthrie, and Caroline Rew; nephews, Wesly (Kayla) Johnson and their daughter Jovi, Dawson (Madelyn) Johnson, Tyson (Lainie) Johnson, Eric Thies, Andrew (Marissa) Thies, and Sam Thies; his special friend, Donna Wilson; lifelong friend, Eric (Gail) Petersen; and his chosen daughter, LeAnn (Dusty) Weekes. He was preceded in death by his parents and infant sister, Amy.
🕊️ David Floyd Johnson will be remembered as a devoted son, brother, uncle, friend, and mentor whose love for farming, wildlife, and community left a lasting legacy. His kindness, loyalty, and dedication will continue to inspire those who knew him. May he rest in eternal peace.
