Obituary of Michael Lee Johansen

Michael Lee Johansen passed away on September 7th, 2023. He was born on January 30, 1953, in Arlington, Virginia, and was raised in Duluth, Minnesota, until the age of 12. He moved to Gordon, Wisconsin, after the passing of his sister and graduated from Northwood High School in Minong, Wisconsin, in 1971.

Michael spent 30 years sailing the Great Lakes as an Engineer for Interlake Steamship Company, retiring in 2003. He attended the University of Wisconsin-Superior for Criminal Justice and remained active with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Department during and after his sailing years, retiring from Douglas County in 2018. Michael also spent many years on the Wascott Volunteer Fire Department and Gordon-Wascott EMS.

Michael enjoyed his retirement at his lake home, where he spent his time outside with the deer, turkey, birds, and his dogs. He also enjoyed becoming a grandfather in recent months.

Michael is preceded in death by his sister, Cynthia Johansen, father, Kenneth Johansen, and mother, Carol Johansen. He is survived by his wife, Denise Johansen, son Michael Johansen, daughter-in-law Korah Johansen, and grandson Elliott Johansen.

Family and friends will be notified of the date and time of Michael’s services. Donations in his memory can be sent to the Humane Society of Douglas County: HSDC, PO Box 891, Superior, WI 54880