LaVern Dennis Johnson, 73, of Chandler, AZ, formerly of Cherokee, IA passed away Tuesday, December 24, 2024 at Sunny Days Senior Living in Mesa, AZ.

Graveside memorial services will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 11 a.m. at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Cherokee, Iowa. Pastor Larry Ostercamp will officiate. Military rites will be held at the graveside by L.A. Wescott Post #2253 and the Cherokee American Legion. A luncheon will follow at the Cherokee Community Center. The Boothby Funeral Home in Cherokee, Iowa is assisting the family with the arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.boothbyfuneral.com

LaVern was born on November 12, 1951 in Cherokee, Iowa to Mitchell M. and Elizabeth "Betty" A. (Spitzbarth) Johnson.

He graduated from Washington High School in 1970. In 1973, LaVern joined the Navy and served as a Field Medic until completing his service in 1976. After his military service, he became an EMT/Paramedic in Cherokee.  He held many jobs until his retirement including  construction laborer, private investigator, and a semi-truck driver.

He was a member of Cornerstone Church in Chandler, AZ. His hobbies included gardening, woodworking, watching westerns, and architecture.

LaVern was preceded in death by his parents Mitchell and Elizabeth "Betty" Johnson, and a brother, Lyle Johnson.

Surviving are two children, Greg Johnson, of Cherokee/Peterson, IA, Andrea McIrvin, of Cherokee, IA; one grandkid, Jack McIrvin of Cherokee, IA; two siblings, Lowell Johnson (Vivian), of Trimble, MO, and Lori Sholly (Louis), of Sedalia, MO; six nieces/nephews, Chris Johnson (Ghazal), Ben Johnson (Katie), David Johnson, James Johnson (Amanda), Scott Johnson (Mel), and Danelle Greer (Dean).