US Senator Tim Johnson remembered, laid to rest

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) – The community, friends and family gathered to say goodbye to former US Senator Tim Johnson.

The service, held at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, focused on a man who served South Dakotans and still made time for family.

“He never paused when there was a chance to make a difference, when there was a chance to do, to do the right thing,” said Johnson’s son Brooks Johnson.

The stories shared were filled with tenderness and, at times, laughter.

“If you were too sick for church, you were too sick for TV, but it proved to be a powerful deterrent, right?” Johnson’s son Brendan Johnson recalled.

Others elected to serve South Dakotans remembered Johnson for his integrity and character.

“He knew what his priorities were in life, and I think that’s really important, and on a day like today, it’s something that we all get the chance to celebrate,” said Senator John Thune.

Former Gubernatorial candidate Jamie Smith appreciated the encouragement from his fellow party member and colleague.

“When folks across the aisle were claiming that God was on their side. Tim Johnson, the quote I remember is ‘The Republicans don‘t own God,’ and that his faith informed his decisions every day,” Smith said.

Gov. Kristi Noem remembered having a good working relationship with Johnson.

“You know, I was brand new to politics when he was a US senator and when I first got elected to Congress, and he always answered all my questions. Gave me wisdom, and I appreciated his mentorship. Even though we were in different political parties, we worked together very, very well, and his family was wonderful. His love for this state and the people here, it’ll live for many many years to come,” Noem explained.

From those grateful for his rural water initiatives when they turn on the tap to the nine tribes bestowing many gifts through the decades, many agree former US Senator Tim Johnson created a path for others to follow.

“The example of showing people how you can lead and be kind and caring is something that we truly need today,” Smith said.

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