Harold Johnson

Harold Verner Johnson, known to many as Vern, passed away on February 26, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the age of 91.

Vern was born on August 29, 1933, in Mullan, Idaho. He pursued higher education with dedication, earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University before continuing his studies at Southern Illinois University, where he obtained a Master's degree in Geography. He also attended Penn State University for two years, further expanding his knowledge and expertise.

A proud veteran, Vern served his country as a Communications Expert in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1955. His service took him to Enewetak Atoll in the Pacific Ocean, where he was present during atomic bomb testing-an experience that shaped his deep respect for history and science.

Vern's professional career was marked by excellence and dedication. He began his work at HRB Singer in Rome, New York, as an Environmental Engineer before joining Lockheed Science and Engineering. His work took him from New York to Houston, Texas, and ultimately to Las Vegas, Nevada. As an expert photo interpreter and subject matter expert for the Environmental Protection Agency's hazardous waste program, Vern played a crucial role in environmental protection efforts. After retiring from Lockheed, he continued contributing to the business world as the office manager for his brother's steel companies in Las Vegas.

Beyond his professional achievements, Vern was a man of deep faith and devotion. A devout Christian, he worshiped regularly at Desert Spring United Methodist Church and Holy Spirit Lutheran Church. He found great joy in singing in the choir, with "God Bless America" being one of his favorite songs. His faith was evident not only in his worship but also in the kindness and warmth he extended to everyone he met. His signature phrase-"God bless you"-was a reflection of his generous spirit and unwavering love for others.

Vern is survived by Irene, his beloved wife of 61 years; his sons Cristopher and Michael; his daughter Erika; his sisters Linda Ransell and Toni Jean Hurst of Utah; four grandsons; one granddaughter; four great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family members who cherished him dearly. He was preceded in death by his father Harold Verner Johnson, his mother Charlotte Sanborn Vodopich, and his brother Stan Johnson.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on April 12, 2025, at Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, located at 6670 W Cheyenne Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89108. The service will begin at 11:00 AM and conclude at 1:00 PM as family and friends gather to honor Vern's remarkable life and legacy.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health (https://give.ccf.org/give/187824#!/donation/checkout) in memory of Vern's compassionate spirit and enduring love for others.

Vern was an extraordinary husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose warmth touched countless lives. His memory will live on through those who had the privilege of knowing him.