Dix Francis Johnke was born on March 5, 1954, in Sioux Falls, SD to Francis Leroy Johnke and Anna Mae (Frinkman) Johnke. He lived his entire life on the family farm near Centerville. He attended Rose Cottage District 68 and then graduated from Centerville High School in 1972. Dix died suddenly at home with his family present on July 20, 2016.

On July 6, 1974, Dix married Vickie Vasgaard. Three children, Jason, Jeanne and Janna were born to this union.

At a very early age, in the sand box in the backyard, Dix began his love for digging in the dirt. As Dix grew up, this love of working in the dirt turned from planting his fields to the true passion for excavating which developed into a successful career. Because of this, he acquired many long time customers and life long friends.

Even though DIx enjoyed his work, his true focus was his wife, Vickie, and his family. He was definitely proud of the fact that Jason, Jeanne and Janna carried on their agricultural heritage. Spending time with Trevor, Tate, Evelyn and Blake also was an important part of his life. Oftentimes, they made their grandpa smile, chuckle and even laugh.

Some pastimes that Dix enjoyed were traveling with Vickie, reading history, camping and attending auctions. Those who knew Dix were never surprised with his quick wit and a random quip or quote to make them smile.

A passerby could often see Dix driving the gator around the farm checking the cattle. Most of the time, Maggie, his dog, was riding on the seat next to him. Whether it was on the gator or in the pick up truck, Maggie was always ready for her excursions with DIx.

Dix was a member of the Komstad Covenant Church of Beresford, SD.

Proceeding him in death were his parents, mother-in-law, father-in-law (Vivian and Elayton Vasgaard) brother Leroy and sister Loretta Trenerry. Grateful in having shared his life are his wife Vickie, Centerville, SD; son Jason, Centerville, SD; daughters Jeanne (Mark) Johnson, Centerville, SD and Janna (Andy) Mark, Viborg, SD; four grandchildren: Trevor, Tate, Evelyn and Blake; two brothers: James (Ruth Ann), Prior Lake, MN; Frank (Karen), Windsor, CO; one sister Susan (Dean) Forbes, Urbandale, IA; sister-in-law Cheri Johnke, Centerville, SD, sister-in-law Cynthia Henke (Ken), Parkston, SD; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 AM, Monday, July 25, 2016 at Komstad Covenant Church, rural Beresford. Visitation will be at the church on Sunday from 5Pm to 8PM with a prayer service at 7PM.