Paul George Johnson

Paul George Johnson, 85, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away at home on October 19, 2025.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 28, from 5:00 -7:00pm at Hamilton’s Funeral Home – 121 NW 60th Avenue in Des Moines. Funeral services will take place on Wednesday, October 29th, at 10:00 AM, followed by burial at Highland Memorial Gardens Cemetery, adjacent to the funeral home. A luncheon will follow at Trostel’s Greenbriar in Johnston.

Paul was born on August 20, 1940, in Fort Dodge, Iowa to George and Hannah (Bangert) Johnson. He graduated from Rolfe High School in 1958. After graduating, he went on to proudly serve in the United States Navy for three years, receiving a medal for his exemplary service.

After his time in the service, Paul pursued higher education at Grand View College and Drake University, earning his degree and laying the foundation for a long and respected career. He went on to work at Firestone for 36 years, where he ultimately became the manager of the Midwest distribution center in Des Moines, Iowa. He was known for his dedication, leadership, and strong work ethic.

In 1970, Paul married Joyce, the love of his life. Together they built a home rooted in faith and love, raising their two sons, Chad and Jay. Paul and Joyce shared a quiet joy in life’s simple pleasures—catching shows at the Des Moines Playhouse, going to Iowa football games, and spending peaceful afternoons in the yard while Joyce tended her flower garden. After Joyce’s passing in 2003, Paul dedicated his life to the care of their son, Chad, who has special needs. He lived a simple and humble life, grounded in his love for his family. Paul’s presence created a sense of calm and warmth for everyone who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of selfless devotion, and a family that will forever be grateful for his unwavering love and lessons.

He was an avid sports fan who loved cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Chicago Cubs, but his loudest cheers were reserved for his grandchildren, Aubrey and Matthew when he attended their games and events. He cherished visits to see relatives in northwest Iowa and Rockford, IL, and found joy in long drives, good conversation, and retelling family stories. Whether he was swapping tales over coffee or sharing quiet moments with loved ones, Paul had a way of making every visit feel like home—warm, familiar, and filled with the kind of comfort only he could provide.

Paul also had a passion for vintage cars, with a particular fondness for Chevys. He had a knack for identifying the make, model and year when he would see one drive by. In later years, he grew fond of Cadillacs and proudly had one parked in his garage at all times.

Paul is survived by his sons, Chad Johnson of Des Moines, Jay (Kristen) Johnson of Urbandale, granddaughter Aubrey Johnson, grandson Matthew Johnson, and several cherished nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Joyce; parents, George and Hannah; and sisters, Lois Stanley, Maxine Claussen, Geraldine Zeman, Jane Simonson, and Carol Schmidt.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Link Associates, an organization supporting special needs, in honor of Paul’s lifelong devotion and compassion.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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