Kenneth Johnson

1923 - 2018

Kenneth Johnson
Kenneth "Ken" W. Johnson, age 94, died peacefully holding his wife's hand, Nov. 6, 2018, in McKinney, Texas. Interment was at Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery with military honors.
Ken was born in Staples, Minn., on Nov. 21, 1923, to Luella (Bakke) Johnson and Albert V. Johnson. He attended school in Staples and at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minn., graduating from the University of Minnesota.
Ken was a natural gifted athlete and in college was a basketball star and an excellent golfer for most of his life. He eventually went on to receive a graduate degree from Harvard University. Ken served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and served as navigator executive officer for his ship, LST 911. He attained the rank of first lieutenant and saw action in the Pacific.
Ken was married in 1950 to Christine G.L. (Nelson) Johnson and they had a very happy life together for 68 years, being blessed with four children, Susan, Sheryl, Mark and Sally. They both enjoyed their summer cabin near Cripple Creek in Colorado, spending time hiking and enjoying the outdoors and local history. Ken was an especially avid photographer, collector and student of Cripple Creek and Colorado history and natural beauty.
Ken is survived by his wife, Christine Johnson; their four children; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
Ken's brother, Douglas Johnson, preceded him in death, as did his parents.
The family requests any memorials be sent to St. Luke Lutheran Church, 5401 Free Ferry Road, Fort Smith, AR 72903.
Online condolences to the family may be shared at www.tjmfuneral.com.