Arnold G. "Arnie" Johnson

1927 - 2025

Arnold "Arnie" G. Johnson
Born: November 7, 1927 in Clinton, IA
Died: September 29, 2025 in Las Vegas, NV
Arnold G. "Arnie" Johnson, age 97, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Born November 7, 1927, in Clinton, Iowa, to Emil and Violet (Pullen) Johnson, Arnie proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy before returning home when he started his own business, Arnie's Electric and was a proud member of the IBEW #364 for 65 years. Later, he became the owner of Arnie's Happy Spot in Deer Grove, Illinois, where his well-known fried chicken recipe brought joy to the community for 32 years. Arnie and his beloved wife, Betty Jean, whom he married on July 24, 1979, created lasting memories together at the Happy Spot and enjoyed hosting weddings and events there over the years.
After retiring, Arnie and Betty embraced life on the road, traveling full time in their RV and exploring the country while forging friendships everywhere they went. In 2012, they made Pahrump, Nevada, their home, cherishing their time there for the remainder of their lives.
Arnie is survived by his daughter, Karen Vanhorn, daughter-in-law Sandy (Aaron) Johnson; extended family Larry (Beda) Walzer, Beth (Curt) Lokken, Becky (Randy) Traub, and Michael (Marina) Walzer; 18 grandchildren; and numerous great and great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Johnson, two sons, Aaron and Arny Joe, a grandson, and a great-grandson.
Arnie will be remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, sharp wit and cunning smile. His legacy lives on in the memories and love of his family and countless friends. He will be deeply missed.