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BORN
1928
DIED
2018
Willard Johnson Obituary
Willard "Bill" Johnson was born July 23, 1928, to Buhl Johnson and Grace Ruth Wilmeth. His parents and grandparents taught him The Golden Rule and that hard work never hurt anyone. He grew up in the country and worked on a farm. He milked cows and peddled milk from a milk wagon pulled by a horse named Old Tuck.
Bill met Donna Stanley on a blind date in August, 1949, and married her 4 months later, truly a case of love at first sight. In Bill's words, she was "the most wonderful, loving woman who ever lived." They were married for 58 until Donna's passing in February, 2008.
Over the years, Bill often said his most important relationships were with his wife, Donna, his law practice, and with Alcoholics Anonymous. His proudest moments were passing the bar, getting married and staying married for 58 years, being elected President of the Toledo Bar Association, watching his 4 children get married, and playing Ewert Dunlop in "The Music Man" (twice).
The single most important experience in Bill's life was attending his first AA meeting more than 55 years ago. As he always said, that experience, quite simply, saved his life. He gave back to AA by "helping sick drunks get back into the human race."
Bill was blessed later in life meeting Tommy Hartman, his partner and lady love for more than 8 years. Bill is survived by Tommy, 4 children, 7 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents; his wonderful brother, Richard "Dick" Johnson; his wife, Donna, and his granddaughter, Maya.
Bill once wrote, "at the end of my life, I hope I will have taught my loved ones to live well, laugh often and love much." Mission accomplished, Bill.
Bill, like Donna before him, donated his body to the University of Toledo Medical College. There will be a Celebration of Bill's Life on Saturday, March 3, 2018, at 2:00 p.m., at the Unity of Toledo Spiritual Center, 3535 Executive Pkwy, Toledo, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Bill's name to Unity of Toledo or YMCA Storer Camps.
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Memories and Condolences
for Willard Johnson
3 Entries
Sahara Luncheon
Joseph LaPlante
March 9, 2018
Bill was a long time guest speaker at the Toledo Sahara Men's Luncheon and his song about "you can tell a lot about people by the company they keep" was always a hilarious big hit. We are better for knowing Bill and I will miss my friend and his ever present smile and positive attitude.
Becky McClure-Spencer
March 2, 2018
Mr. Johnson played his banjo and sang "The Razorback Steak" song at YMCA Storer Camps/Family Camp in the 60's. Those after the meal sing-a-longs were a favorite part of my childhood at camp and His song is still sung at camp and at McClure family gatherings today. His motto to live, laugh and love is a lesson for all! He will be fondly remembered.
John Granger
March 2, 2018
Sorry for your loss of such a wonderful person!I had the pleasure of getting to know Bill ten years ago, and he helped me in my recovery. He always has nothing but positive and kind words to pass on to those he came in contact with. He will be missed by many. Respectfully; John Granger. "You Bet It Works" group
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