Guy Charles Johnson

Monday, August 5, 2019 1:49 pm

Guy Charles Johnson, pianist, beloved friend and mentor, passed July 29, 2019, at the age of 85.

Guy was a brilliant player – A prodigy who studied with the 20th Century’s most-renowned pedagogues.

Born in Marinette Wis., Guy grew up participating in the family business, practiced daily, and traveled weekly for lessons, in Milwaukee or Chicago.

A brilliant player, he performed throughout his life, even while serving as head of the piano departments at Drury and Luther Colleges and Friends University. Under his tutelage, he inspired students to become renowned musicians and business personalities, around the country and abroad.

While teaching in Wichita, Guy and his partner, JJ Hancock (deceased 2007), founded the firm, Remarkable Estate Sales.

After long and successful careers in music and business, they returned to Decorah in 2005, where they were active in numerous civic and cultural organizations while pursuing their interests in music, art and antiques. Guy entertained frequently, welcoming all for engaging conversations. He continued to explore new music and ideas throughout his life.

He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by all whose lives he touched and mentored.

There will be no visitation.

Memorials in his name may be directed to: Winneshiek Medical Center Foundation, 901 Montgomery Street, Decorah, Iowa 52101, Humane Society of Northeast Iowa., 2345 Millennium Road, Decorah, IA 52101, Aase Haugen Foundation, 4 Ohio Street, Decorah, Iowa 52101, Or, a charity of your choice.

Please kindly include your name and address that we may write, to acknowledge your condolences and, or, any gift.

Fjelstul Funeral Home in Decorah is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at fjelstul.com.