Larry "Dan" Johnson

Dan was born February 26, 1961 in Cherokee, IA to Larry L. and Shirlene (Paulsen) Johnson. He was baptized and confirmed at the United Methodist Church in Cushing. He graduated from Eastwood High School in 1979 and continued his education earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science/Ag Education from South Dakota State University in 1983.

While attending college Dan met the love of his life, Cheryl Mewes. They were married on May 26, 1984. To this union one daughter, Cassie Johnson was born March 12, 1985.

Dan worked for Vet Provisions at the time of his death. He also was managing partner of Solution Genetics. Dan was very grateful for the commitment and support of his partners, Cheryl and Cassie, in growing Solution Genetics with international recognition showing national champion Red Angus in Denver, CO, Louisville, KY, Ft. Worth, TX and Billings, MT. He was a visionary, recognizing the maternal fault free traits of the Red Angus breed while yet possessing show ring eye-appeal. Dan and Solution Genetics have introduced these traits to many youth who will carry on Dan’s vision.

North American Junior Red Angus Event was near and dear to Dan. As one of the founders, he took great pride in watching the youth of the beef industry grow into future leaders in the cattle business. He was an advisor for the Iowa Jr Limousin Association, Iowa Jr Red Angus Association, Red Angus National Show and Sale Committee. Dan’s passion for youth extended to the youth of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, in 1993 he and Cheryl raised enough funds to take 19 youth from the parish to the World Youth Day in Denver to see Pope John Paul II.

He was preceded in death by his father Larry L. Johnson. Dan is survived by wife Cheryl of Cushing; daughter, Cassie of Cushing; mother, Shirlene Johnson of Cushing; sisters, Tamie and Kirk Gaes of Storm Lake, IA, Trudie and Brian Volkert of Correctionville, IA and Danette and Ron Morgan of Larabee, IA; as well as several nieces and nephews.