Alvin Dean Johnson

Alvin Dean Johnson, 81, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away Friday, February 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife and family.

Dean was born on March 3, 1944, in Junction City, Kansas, to Alvin B. and Ruth E. Johnson. He graduated from Junction City High School in 1962, where he was honored as a Putnam Scholar. He continued his education at Kansas State University, earning his Bachelor’s Degree in 1966, and later received his Master of Pharmacy from the University of Kansas in 1969.

Dean faithfully served the Topeka community as a pharmacist for 42 years. His career began at Medical Arts Pharmacy, continued at Shaffert Grimes Pharmacy, and concluded with his retirement from the VA Hospital. He was known for his professionalism, steady presence, and genuine care for those he served.

While attending Kansas State, Dean met the love of his life, Diane Sue McMurray. They were married on July 3, 1966, in Wichita, Kansas, and together raised two daughters, Kimberly and Kristin. Dean became a member of First Lutheran Church in 1971 and was a proud member of the church’s 50-Year Club. His faith was central to his life.

Dean had a deep love for music and shared his gifts generously. On any given Sunday, his beautiful voice could be heard from the choir loft. He delighted in playing his trumpet for Easter fanfares and ringing bells with the Te Deum bell choir.

Diane preceded him in death on June 7, 2001. Dean found love again and married Lynnette Darlene Haven Nelson on February 14, 2004. Through their union, he was blessed with two additional daughters, Erika and Maeghan. Together, Dean and Lynnette were blessed with nine grandchildren and one great-granddaughter, each of whom brought him immense pride and joy.

An avid sports fan, Dean enjoyed the friendly rivalry of a house divided between KU and K-State. He loved playing golf and continued to enjoy watching the game until the end. Above all, he treasured his family and made every effort to attend his grandchildren’s activities—whether choir, sports, orchestra, or dance. His presence in the stands and audience was a gift they will always remember.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Ruth; his brother, Eugene; his first wife, Diane; and their newborn son, Christopher James.

Dean is survived by his wife, Lynnette; daughters Kimberly Goodnow (Jeff) of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas; Kristin Perez (David) of Topeka, Kansas; Erika Whightsil (Randy) of Topeka, Kansas; and Maeghan Miller (Patrick) of Kansas City, Missouri; his brother David Johnson (Kathy) of Overland Park, Kansas; nine grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; and many beloved extended family members.

Dean will be remembered for his stories, his classic dad jokes, his beautiful smile, his gentle spirit, and his unwavering kindness.

A funeral service in Dean's honor will be held at 11:00am on Friday, February 20, 2026 at First Lutheran Church of Topeka. His family will greet friends and relatives one hour prior to his service. He will be laid to rest at Marion Hill Lutheran Cemetery in White City, KS. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Lutheran Church, 1234 Fairlawn Road, Topeka, KS 66604.

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