Timothy Paul Johnson (T.J) age 67 of Atlantic, Iowa died at his home in Atlantic on Monday, October 26, 2026. He was born on October 7, 1959, the fourth of five children born to Marion and Margery Johnson. He grew up on the family’s dairy farm north of Lewis, Iowa, where he developed a hands-on nature and a curiosity about how things worked.
Tim was a talented, self-taught musician who could play several instruments, including guitar, bass, and drums. Drawn to the blues-rock sounds of ZZ Top and Jimi Hendrix, he spent countless hours playing their music while developing a style of his own. In his early
twenties, he turned the dairy farm’s milking parlor into an impromptu gathering spot where friends could come together and play. Tim took the lead on guitar, his sister played drums, and a friend joined in on bass. Those jam sessions brought together two things Tim loved most: music and creativity (in the company of the people he loved).
Tim also had an appreciation for cars, especially Fords. Over the years, he owned a 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 and a Ford Gran Torino. One of the family’s favorite car stories was about a 1969 Mercury Monterey they called “The Great White Buffalo.” It could hold about eight people and was shared amongst the Johnson siblings. Tim loved taking the “Buffalo” out with his friends, enjoying the freedom of the open road. He always enjoyed a classic car and never passed up a chance to take one for a drive.
Tim was just as comfortable working with his hands as he was behind the wheel or playing guitar. He enjoyed woodworking, building guitars, and tinkering with just about anything he could get his hands on. He had a natural curiosity and knack for figuring out how things worked, often taking things apart to see the mechanics inside. Getting everything back together didn’t always go quite as planned, but that was all part of Tim’s charm.
“Bold as Love”, Tim was a true maverick who lived life on his own terms. He kept people laughing with his humor, his antics, and the many unforgettable stories that will continue to be shared for years to come. Beneath that playful side was a caring brother, son, and uncle who loved his family with a protective nature. Those who knew Tim will remember him for all the things that made him who he was: his love of music and cars, his ability to work with his hands, his sense of humor, and his independent spirit. He leaves behind many memories, plenty of stories, and a lasting place in the hearts of those who loved him.
He is survived by his sisters, Susan (Dana) Hockensmith of St. Louis, MO and Nancy (Alan) Reimer of Des Moines, IA; Julie Livingston (Dwight Johnson); Mark Jespersen (Sarah Jespersen); many nieces and extended family; and Susie Simpson, his longtime friend.
Tim was preceded in death by his parents, Marion and Margery Johnson; his beloved sister, Sarah Jespersen; his brother, Dwight Johnson; and his nephew, Philip Hockensmith.
Memorial services will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, November 14, 2026, at the Schmidt Family Funeral Home in Atlantic, Iowa. Visitation with the family present will be held an hour before services at the funeral home. Reception will follow the service at the Schmidt Family Funeral Home.
Memorial can be made in his name to Cass County 4-H Foundation and can be mailed or left at the Schmidt Family Funeral Home at PO Box 523 – Atlantic, IA 50022
