Arthur Eric Johnson (Rick) 73 of Baraboo WI passed away August 30th, 2026, at UW Hospital. He was born to Arthur Lee and Nancy Johnson on June 10, 1953. Rick grew up in the Vilas Neighborhood of Madison attending both Madison Central and Madison West High School followed by attendance at University of Wisconsin Madison. Rick worked in the Restaurant and Tavern business as a manager and later salesman of supplies. Having a passion for Golf, Rick assisted other like-minded players in acquiring and modifying the best clubs for their game. After the loss of his father, Rick moved to Lake Jordan working locally as a salesman and assisted his mother in caring for The Cottage.

Rick was a great athlete; in fact, he would often tell you how to play the game and win! In high school he played and participated in football, basketball and baseball, receiving numerous letters. After high school he played competitive fastpitch softball and was on a traveling team, where he developed lifelong friendships. Rick was ambidextrous; he could play sports effectively right or left fascinating other players with his skills.

His family will remember him as a man who cared about family, The Cottage, and supporting his friends. When he was young, Rick would support his father with drafting plans for redesign or constructing golf courses. He valued hard work, honesty, and a person's character. Rick had a unique way of striking up spontaneous conversations with anyone revealing an outgoing personality. To his nieces and nephews Uncle Ricky was loving but fair. He made sure to instill his values on them as well as the importance of their lives and individual contributions. To his friends he was fun and caring. He made it a priority to continue the weekly tradition of going out for a fish dinner.

Hobbies included yard work, Golf and more yard work. For years he maintained the family property on Lake Jordan due to his love for the legacy created by family.

Rick was preceded in death by his mother Nancy Coughlin Johnson, father Arthur Lee Johnson and brother David Johnson.

Rick is survived by sisters Nancy Johnson Cramer, Beth Fiscus and Kathleen Johnson, brothers Tom Johnson and Kurt Johnson, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Religious service for Rick will be held at Walnut Hill Cemetery, Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 10:30 am, 1805 East St, Baraboo, WI 53913.

A celebration of life (luncheon) will be held immediately following the religious service in Baraboo Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Mike's Italian Restaurant, 630 W Pine St, Baraboo, WI 53913, from 11:00 am to 1:00pm.

Please share your memories below in the online guestbook.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road Madison

(608) 238-3434