Bud was born in Eldena, Illinois, on May 25, 1927, to Benjamin Johnson and Florence (Fischer) Johnson. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Gladys McCann, and brother Herman “Bud” Alber Jr. He is survived by two brothers, Dennis and Don Johnson. Bud leaves behind his only child, Pamela J. Baker. Bud also leaves behind his life partner, Elaine Simpson, and his fur babies Mickey and Minnie. He will be missed by his four grandchildren, DeAnna M. Morris (Masterson), Roxanne L. Hanna (Masterson), Michael V. Baker, and Markus W. Baker, as well as his eight great-grandchildren.
Bud was a travel enthusiast and visited all 50 states in his lifetime. In his 96 years, he enjoyed living in Illinois, Utah, and Arizona. Illinois was always “home,” though.
A great storyteller, Bud loved to share memories of his time aboard the Harry F Bauer DM-26 during WWII, what it was like growing up a country boy in Illinois in a different time, and tales of raising Appaloosa horses with his daughter. He was proud of being a self-starter in his youth by owning a milk route, starting Mayflower Moving, driving a truck around the country, and going on to building homes and remodeling houses as Johnson Construction in the Sauk Valley area. His last endeavor was building and owning the Bargain Barn furniture store.
Bud was a lover of all animals and enjoyed watching birds. In his passing, Bud has left a gift fund for Happy Tails so his love of animals can live on.
Due to his love of animals, in lieu of flowers, he would have appreciated a donation made in his name to an animal shelter of your choice.
Cremation rites have been accorded. Arrangements have been entrusted to Schilling Funeral Home in Sterling, Illinois.
A celebration of life will be from 12:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at the VFW in Dixon, Illinois. The celebration of life will end with Military Honors at the VFW at 2:30 p.m.
