Rev. Charles Irwin Johnson

Charles Irwin Johnson (Reverend Charles I. Johnson), 93, of Bend, Oregon, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 9, 2026.

Chuck was born on January 14, 1933, in Detroit, Michigan, the oldest of six children, born to Harold and Alta Johnson. He attended DePauw University for his undergraduate studies and later earned his degree from the Boston University School of Theology in 1957. During his time in Boston, he met the love of his life, Shirley Elouise Kinney.

Following graduation, Chuck and Shirley returned to Indiana, where he began his lifelong ministry serving congregations within the United Methodist Church of northern Indiana. He faithfully served as a United Methodist pastor, camp director, and later as District Superintendent of the Logansport District from 1983 to 1988. He continued his ministry until his retirement in 1998.

More than anything, Chuck will be remembered for his joy-filled laughter, deep faith, and unwavering commitment to serving others. He loved his calling and dedicated his entire career to the United Methodist Church in Indiana.

In his later years, Chuck fell in love with Oregon. He and Shirley spent their final years in Bend, enjoying time with their grandchildren and visits to the Oregon coast. Last year, they celebrated 67 years of marriage.

Chuck is survived by his wife, Shirley; his son, Wayne; and daughter, Amy; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and his younger sister and brother who reside in Florida.

He was preceded in death by his son, Corey; brothers, Larry and Dave; and his sister, Diane.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 21, at 2:00 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church in Bend.

The family is planning a Celebration of Life later this spring in Indianapolis, Indiana.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) at https://umcmission.org/work/humanitarian-relief.

Throughout his career, Chuck officiated many weddings and funerals, standing beside families in moments of celebration and in times of loss. His enduring joy for service will live on in the lives he touched.