Lauren G. "Sunny" Johnson, 87, lifetime resident of Superior, passed away Wednesday September, 26, 2012 at St. Luke's Hospice with his grandson Chris at his side.

Lauren was born on Feb. 10, 1925 the son of Albert and Alyce Johnson.

Lauren enlisted in the Navy serving during WWII as a Fire Control Technician.

He married the former Dolores "Dolly" Whittaker on Mar. 12, 1948 and they celebrated 64 years of marriage together.

He had worked as an engineer at the Cargill grain elevators and he retired as a Supervisor from the BNSF Taconite Facility. He was on the board of directors for the BNSF Employees Club.

Lauren was a past commander and longtime honor guard member of the Richard I. Bong American Legion Post #435. He was the last remaining charter member of the Parkland Fire Department and he was Parkland Town Supervisor for 50 years. He loved racing and was inducted into the Tri-State Racing Association Hall of fame. He was a devoted Green Bay Packer Fan.

Most important to Lauren was his family and he enjoyed playing with his great-grandson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Russell; sister, Sandra; and a niece, Tracey.

Lauren is survived by his wife, Dolly; daughters, Laurel "Kookie" (Gary) LaJoie of Iron River and Pamela (Rick) Lapham of Ellijay, GA; grandchildren, Christopher LaJoie of Superior and Casey LaJoie of Iron River; great-grandson, Colton LaJoie; and a special "daughter", DeAnn Olson of South Range.

A mass of the resurrection at the Church of St. Alban The Martyr will be held on Mon. Oct. 1, 2012 at 11:00.m. with The Rev. Fr. Nicholas Thomas Hill. Visitation will begin one hour prior. Military honors will be accorded by the Richard I. Bong American Legion Post #435.

Downs Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.