BOONE, Iowa—Funeral arrangements have been set for 82 year old Everett Johnson of Boone, Iowa. He passed away due to complications of Covid-19 on Sunday, December 20, 2020 at Mercy Hospital. He was born on July 21, 1938 in rural Moorhead, Iowa, the son of Edwin and Lucille Johnson. Ev was raised on their family farm with his two brothers and sister. His love for music began at a young age, sitting on his mother’s lap, her arms around him as she played piano and all five of them singing songs from the church hymnal. He went on to participate in high school and collegiate band and chorus, teaching, and eventually led him to be the Executive Secretary of the Iowa High School Music Association.
Everett graduated from Dana College in 1960, where he met his wife, June. He began his vocal music teaching and coaching career in Exira, IA, followed by Sheldon, IA. It was in Sheldon where Everett and June started their family of four sons. In 1978, Everett and family moved to Boone where he began his new role leading the IHSMA. In 2003, he was selected to the National Federation of State High School Association’s Hall of Fame. He was the first musician/music administrator ever selected to the Hall of Fame. He always considered this his greatest professional achievement.
Upon his retirement, he enjoyed golfing with his friends and family, yearly fishing trips with his sons and grandson, and keeping up with his grandchildren’s activities. He could always be found in the bleachers at any Boone High or DMACC ball game with popcorn, diet coke, and peanut m&m’s within arm’s reach. Everett was at his happiest when his entire family was together under one roof.
Everett was a devoted member of Augustana Lutheran Church, where he also directed the choir for 22 years. He was a featured soloist at many events. Everett often shared one of his proudest moments was conducting the All-State Chorus and Orchestra in his retirement year. A highlight of Everett’s life was running into former students and music acquaintances everywhere he went.
Everett was preceded in death by parents Edwin and Lucille, his brother George and his son, Michael. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, June, his sons Tim (Lynn) of Boone, IA, Stewart (Kelly) of Minneapolis, MN, Brandon (Shelly) of Ankeny, IA, and his grandchildren Lance, Taylor, Jens, Gus, Mary, and Wyatt. He is also survived by his brother, Ed (Karin), sister Nadine and many beloved nieces and nephews.
The family will have a private service. Family and friends may view a live stream of the memorial service at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 23, 2020 by clicking on this link: https://www.facebook.com/SchroederStarkWelin
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family to be used at their discretion.
Online condolences may be left at www.schroederfuneral.com
Schroeder-Stark-Welin Funeral Home at 609 7th Street, Boone is assisting the family with these arrangements.