I have always made a living as a woodworker yet I will be the first to admit that I have just scratched the surface. I’ve honed my craft in a range of capacities including work as a craftsman in my own shop, as an engineering and production manager in large architectural shops and as a woodworking teacher. However, it’s much more than just a living for me. Call it passion or life style; it’s a big part of what defines me. I am intrigued by new techniques and styles and I let my imagination and interests take me where they may. The search for unique material, which is a challenge in the Midwest, is an aspect I especially enjoy. The freedom to design and the confidence that my work is enjoyed and respected brings all the joy one could ask for in a career.

Neil Young writes about sitting down and writing a long letter. 

“One of these days, I'm gonna sit down and write a long letter To all the good friends I've known
And I'm gonna try And thank them all for the good times together. Though so apart we've grown.”

My Dad, Don Johnson gets a lot of the credit for my intense interest in the crafts, Don was always so excited and enthusiastic to try new things such as boat building, turning, stained glass, metal sculpture, and painting. He was just like a kid every time he started or finished a new project. His legacy lives on through his work and mine.

A few teachers, people, and places that have impacted and influenced me.

 Bob Pelikan of Land O Lakes, WI. was my high school woodshop teacher. Bob is an amazing craftsman who set me on a path at sixteen years old, whether he knew it or not.

Ed Dyas of the University of Wisconsin Stout. Ed was the consummate perfectionist who showed me that close is not close enough. The town of Menomonie and the University “where I grew up”.

My buddies Mike, Dennis, Mel, Lard, Stud, Keet, Denno, Jackson, Joe, Mikey, Dick, Lonnie. You guys complete me.

All the guys I have worked with and all the work that we should be proud of at Elvig Design, Paul’s Woodcraft, Heartwood Architectural Woodwork and last but not least all the dear folks at Andover High School.

Hannah, Aaron and Vickie- “the first Fifty years go by pretty fast”

The Johnson and Luckow Clans- we are all lucky to have each other.

Dale “ Puck “ Johnson and his wife, Vickie Johnson live in Three Lakes, Wisconsin.