BREAKING: Gene Olaf Johnson, aged 85, peacefully passed away on November 3, 2025, surrounded by his children at the 9th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City, Iowa. The community mourns the loss of a cherished father, grandfather, and friend.
A funeral service honoring Gene Johnson will take place at 11 a.m. on November 10, 2025, at the Hauser Weishaar Funeral Home in Charles City. The service will be officiated by Sister Diana Blong, with burial to follow at Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m., allowing friends and family to pay their respects before the service.
Gene was born on August 27, 1940, to Lawrence and Kathryn (Fods) Johnson in Charles City. He completed his education at Nashua Schools after attending Greenwood Country School. Gene married his beloved wife, Christina “Chris” Emerson, on November 26, 1966, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.
Throughout his life, Gene worked as a GM mechanic at Bissonnette’s Chevrolet, drove semi for Anthony Bill Trucking, and continued to stay active by hauling grain after Chris’s passing. He also served in the Floyd County Sheriff’s Reserves under Sheriff L.L. Lane for many years.
An avid outdoorsman, Gene enjoyed pheasant and turkey hunting, fishing, and camping with his family. His greatest pride came from his children and grandchildren; he often recounted stories of cherished moments spent with them.
Gene leaves behind his four children: Gina Meyer of Phoenix, Arizona, Lon (Sarah) Johnson of Thornton, Iowa, Dawne (Brad) Bilharz, and Jacqueline Johnson, both of Charles City. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including Cody (Genevieve) Johnson, Nicholas Meyer, Tyler Johnson, and many more.
He was preceded in death by his wife Chris, his parents, and several brothers-in-law.
The family invites the community to join them in celebrating Gene’s life and legacy. Arrangements are being handled by Hauser Weishaar Funeral Home, which can be contacted at (641) 228-2323 for more information. Online condolences may be left on the Tribute Wall at www.hauserfh.com.
This loss deeply impacts the Charles City community, as Gene was known for his kindness and dedication to family. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.