Dale Eugene Johnson

Dale Eugene Johnson, 72, Topeka, passed away on Tuesday, April 21, 2009 after a 10-year battle with cancer.
He was born January 1, 1937 in Holton, KS to Ole Johnson, Sr. and Mae Bunch Johnson. He grew up in Topeka, attending East Topeka Jr. High and Topeka High School. He lived in Topeka his entire life, working for 35 years with the City of Topeka Engineering Dept. Dale was a paper carrier for the Topeka Capital Journal for over 30 years.
Dale played city and church men's fast pitch softball for many years, turning his love of the sport into managing and coaching his daughter's team, the Topeka Seven-Up Ladybugs (13-15 y/o) girls fast pitch softball team. In 1976 they won the National Championship. In June, 2008, he was chosen to throw the first pitch for the Women's Olympic Team U.S.A, against the Kansas All-Stars at Hummer Sports Park. Dale enjoyed hunting birds in Western Kansas with his son, nephew, and brother-in-law. Dale was a loyal KU fan, ushering for the KU Football program at Memorial Stadium for many years.
Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Demaris, a daughter; Darla (Rick) Benke, a son; Darrin (Nessa) Johnson, five grandchildren; Erick (Sarah) Benke, Brooke, and Jenifer Benke; Jesse and Harrison Baker, all of Topeka. A great grandchild is expected in August. He is also survived by two sisters; Maxine Thompson of Topeka, and Juanita (Don) Switzer of Minneapolis, MN, and several nieces and nephews. Dale is preceded in death by four siblings; Mildred Washburn, Corabell Godsey, Florence Niehaus, and Ole Johnson, Jr.
Mr. Johnson will lie in state on Thursday, April 23rd, after 12 noon, with visitation to be held between 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm, at Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel. A funeral service will be held on Friday, April 24th, 3:00 pm, at Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel, with interment to follow at Penwell-Gabel Cemetery.