Ira Claire "Gramps" Johnson

1931 - 2026

Ira Clair "Gramps" Johnson

1931 - 2026

Ira Clair Johnson was born in 1931 in Hooven, Ohio, to Ersel and Adelaide Johnson. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on February 19, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, service, and unforgettable memories with the family and friends who meant everything to him.

Ira spent his childhood growing up on a farm in Hooven, where he learned the value of hard work and devotion to family. He often shared stories of caring for the animals before school and spending long days alongside his family. Those early years shaped the steady, hardworking, and humble man so many came to admire.

He attended Raymer Elementary School and graduated from Macomber High School, Class of 1950. Ira proudly served in the 37th Division National Guard from 1949 to 1952 in field artillery. He was later drafted into the United States Army, serving as a radio operator at Camp Polk, Louisiana, from 1951 to 1952. He fondly recalled the long walks through pecan orchards, filling his pockets with pecans alongside fellow soldiers who would become lifelong friends. He was honorably discharged shortly before the birth of his first son.

Ira was married to wife, Delores (Sell) Johnson for 29 years. They raised their children, Dan and Pam, on Barrows Street. Their neighborhood became a close-knit circle of friends who shared in raising their families together. Summers were spent camping at Road Runners Camping Club, creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime.

Ira worked as a lineman for the Edison Company and spent many years as a skilled electrician and handyman. Wiring homes was not just work, it was his passion. He generously shared his talents with countless friends and family members over the years.

In 1961, Ira was appointed to the Toledo Fire Division, where he dedicated 26 years of service to his community. The fire department became a second family, and the friendships he built there were bonds that endured a lifetime. He was later promoted to lieutenant. The fire department was not just a job, it was his life, a calling he carried with pride, honor, and unwavering devotion.

Yet even with a life defined by service, Ira's greatest joy was found in love and family. While wiring a house, Ira met the love of his life, Sarah. Together they shared 30 beautiful years filled with laughter, adventure, and deep devotion. Ira and Sarah traveled across the country in their motor home, working on lighting installations for Taco Bell restaurants and visiting family. In retirement, they treasured time spent raising grandchildren, and traveling west to visit family. Ira also shared a special trip to New Zealand with his son, Dan, an adventure that was unforgettable.

Ira loved hunting and fishing with dear friends and could always be found throwing horseshoes at summer gatherings with his firefighter family. He cherished fried bologna sandwiches and margaritas at Nick & Jimmy's, shared with friends who became family.

Ira spent his last years of his life wrapped in the love and devoted care of his grandchildren and step son, Robert Coleman, Joshua Coleman and Jennifer Nethery. The bond they shared was one of deep devotion, gratitude, and cherished daily moments that will forever be treasured.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate team at Ohioans Hospice and his amazing caregivers, April and Christina, for the exceptional care and comfort they provided.

He will be remembered as the sweetest man you could ever meet, the guy everyone knows, The Legend! Known for his sloppy kisses, heartfelt hugs, corny jokes, and endless stories. His unconditional love and generous heart will never be forgotten.

Ira was preceded in death by his parents, Ersel and Adelaide Johnson; his siblings, Elizabeth "Sis" Marsh, Ray (Pete) Donatella, Barb (Ed) Waite, Neil (Pat) Johnson, and Dale (Jo Ella) Johnson; his stepson, Paul Coleman; and his beloved wife, Sarah (Alexander/Coleman) Johnson.

He is survived by his son, Dan Johnson; daughter, Pam (George) Linares; stepchildren, Jim Coleman, Anna Burns, and Robert Coleman; cousin, Al Woods; 14 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward his love and legacy.

A visitation and Last Alarm service will be held at Walker Funeral Home, 5155 W. Sylvania Avenue, Toledo, Ohio 43623, on Thursday, February 26th, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Following the Last Alarm, friends and family are invited to gather for a Celebration of Life at Nick & Jimmy's, 4956 Monroe Street, Toledo, Ohio 43623.

Funeral services will take place on Friday, February 27th, at 12 p.m., followed by burial at Toledo Memorial Park, 6382 Monroe Street, Sylvania, Ohio 43560.

Please join us as we honor and celebrate the incredible legend, Ira C. Johnson "Gramps," that we were all blessed to love.

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