David Ellis "Diamond Dave" Johnson , age 53 of Orestes, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, February 6, 2023 following a timbering accident in Tipton County.  He was born July 6, 1969 to John D. and Nila J. (Huth) Johnson in Colorado Springs, Colorado where his father was stationed in the military at Ent Air-Force Base.  David grew up in rural Elwood where he was a 1987 graduate of Frankton High School and was active in Madison County 4-H in his youth and later with his own sons as an adult.  He worked in farming all of his life, and currently worked for Utterback Farms in Alexandria.  David also formerly worked with G & E Farms and Fettig Canning Company for many years.

David was known for being a smart entrepreneur who knew many ways to make a living.  David especially enjoyed cutting and selling wood and timber; and he had an extensive knowledge of forestry and trees.  He loved nothing more than working outside or spending time on the water.  David enjoyed gardening and raising tomatoes; going to auctions; and had a long history of attending the "Little 500" for over 30 years.  More than anything, David's family was a very special part of his life.  He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

David's family would like to thank the outstanding First Responders from Madison County and Tipton County who exhausted every effort to assist and save David's life at the site of the accident on Monday.  Their care and compassion is greatly appreciated and will never be forgotten.

David's family includes his parents, John and Nila Johnson of Elwood; 2 beloved sons, David "Lane" Johnson and Mason Johnson both of Atlanta; his longtime companion, Amanda Millikan of Orestes; 2 siblings, twin brother, Dale (Stacey) Johnson of Anderson and Daniel (Kristen) Johnson of Alexandria; former spouse and mother of his children, Sharon Johnson of Atlanta; nieces and nephews, Levi (Erica) Johnson and their daughter, Davis, Madison Whetsel, Drew Johnson, Dane Johnson, and Kalyn Johnson; and too many good friends to list.  David was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Eldon and Hilda Johnson; maternal grandparents, Fred and Selma Huth; beloved dog, Diamond; and uncle, David Huth.

A funeral service celebrating David's life will be held at 4:00 pm on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home with family friend, Russell Brashear officiating.  Visitation will be held from 12 to 4 pm prior to the funeral at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home.  Cremation will follow the services.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Migrant Council or the German Shorthair Pointer Rescue (donate.rescueme.org).  Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.copherfeslermay.com.