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Dexter Johnson Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Dexter Johnson
Laura Moran
December 6, 2020
Dexter! I always felt so happy coming into your classroom. It was a bright place to be. I´ve laughed over the years at your hilarious stunts, like when you insisted on calling Phoebie´s name, from the Catcher In the Rye, to "Fiobee". You would ride around sitting on the top of your rolling cart with your megaphone. Those were magical times!!! Cheers!!
Dana Sexton
July 10, 2020
I went to Palo Verde high school in the late 80s. My English teacher wanted to be called by his first name Dexter. Over the last 30 years I have thought of him often. So today I used Google and I put in Palo Verde high school in Tucson Arizona Dexter. And this website popped up. Its been over 30 years since he was my teacher and I dont know if the family still checks this website, but I do want you to know he changed my life. He instilled in me a love for learning. I just thought you should know.
Rick Hannaman
July 1, 2018
Sophomore year english class Palo Verde high school 1975 Mr Johnson was my chosen name for him, his for me was Dr Hannaman. That very first day roll call initiated many big beaming true to heart smiles between us. During that tense moment that my name was called he stood up from his seat atop his desk and called for all (44) Students ATTENTION! I was asked to stand, I could feel the sweat beading up on my forehead and the heat generated by my surely beat red face, what the hell did I do? I was thinking damn Ive only been here 5 minutes! Mr Johnson proceeded to tell everybody how he had the privilege 6 years earlier to be my brothers english teacher and 4 years earlier the same for my sister. Then he asked me how many more are there of your clan Dr HANNAMAN? Ok you can sit now. Every body was laughing so hard except me! Then that first smile between the two of us was secured.
Thank you Mr Johnson, your english class was the only one I passed. barely
Id like to think I earned a small place in your heart, you earned a very big one in mine.
Monique Ramirez-Nichols
December 10, 2007
Mr. Johnson was an amazing person and teacher. It was "cool" to be in one of Dex's classes. Please know that he made learning fun, and brought a lot of laughter into the classroom. My heart goes out to his family and friends.
Tanya Hunt (Stell)
July 19, 2007
I had the pleasure of having "Dex" for English and as my student council advisor at Palo Verde (1991). Long live "fun with vocab." What a great teacher and friend. I looked forward to his amazing Christmas cards and retired life news each year. I would like to send my blessings to his family and friends. Such a tremendous loss, such a remarkable man.
John Waller
July 9, 2007
Dear Cousin,
We shared many happy memories in our youth as your family would come into Kansas City for visits and we would travel out to various cities in Kansas to stay with you. It was a highlight of my summer to spend a week or so alone with your family. There was that wonderful Johnson summer reunion in Marble, Colorado where you and I discussed “The Grapes of Wrath” which you frequently referenced in later conversations. As we both became involved with careers and grew our own families, contact became less frequent. But clearly you were doing God’s work based on the comments on this obituary site. Then after retirement, you not only resurrected the contact, but all the memories with food reviews and stories about Kansas City. Even sent a plate from one of our favorite restaurants that you purchased on a recent visit. We loved our trip to Pismo to see the wonderful life style you and Beth created and were eagerly planning your oft delayed visit to the Washington area. The March 2006 Tucson reunion gave us an opportunity to share in many of the parts of Arizona your loved. When you called from the Stanford Hospital room a few days before the heart gave out we talked only of future adventures together. Seeing each other post recovery when in San Francisco in August, the next family reunion and lots of celebration in 2008. You kept the expectation alive for even better things to come. Your influence will live on for many generations as your students appreciate what you did for them. You will be missed by your family and countless others. Your life was well lived as you practiced “carpe diem” every day.
Juan Pablo Reggiardo
June 25, 2007
My condolences to all of Dexter's family. As much as you are missing him, I can only imagine all of the wonderful, incredible memories you have of him to help. I had Dexter (Dex as we used to call him) back in 1990. He had to be one of the funniest teachers I've ever had. He not only made class fun to go to but made the learning a bit fun as well. One of my fondest memories of Dex was, when I called on him because I had a question, he referred to me as Lipius Maximus...it was damn funny and that was how he was with us. He cared about teaching and he cared about us and that's what made him the special person he was.
Jack Williamson
June 23, 2007
Dex was my junior english teacher, and gave me the nickname of " Birdman".
The nickname faded, but what Dex taught me never will. He will be sorely missed.
Rita Rothrock (Gieske)
June 23, 2007
I was a student in Dex's class in 1992 and was alway's amazed at his humor and commradery! He always had a smile on his face and some funny joke to tell. Though being an English Teacher and always making sure that things were spelled or pronounced correctly, he was always there for each and every one of his students. My sympathies go out to his wife and family. Beth and Burton, Dex will be sadly missed and my thoughts and prayers go out to you and yours. Rest in Peace Dex...
Denise (Stogsdill) Moynihan
June 22, 2007
Dexter was my junior year english teacher in 1987-88. He added so many special things to the novels we read. He was patient with me and my friends when we would act up in class - and would sometimes make a remark that sent the class rolling with laughter. He was very supportive of all his students and wanted everyone to succeed. I have thought of him fondly many times since graduating in 1989. He was definitely one of my most memorable teachers. My thoughts are with his family. I am so sorry for your loss.
Jerry Bessette
June 19, 2007
My name is Jerry Bessette. Dexter was my best friend during 7th,8th, & 9th grades in Concordia, Ks. We spent a lot of time together playing sports, trading ball cards. He was just a great fun loving friend and I was so looking to seeing him this Aug. when we were going to be in Calif. for a wedding. We had been talking over the phone after he finally ran me down thru the internet. He'll really be missed.
Chris Sapp
June 17, 2007
My name is Chris Sapp. Mr. Johnson was my Freshman english teacher, who I will never forget how he presented English. Interesting and enjoyable at the same time,teaching a lesson on how to be a better person in your own future. He will be missed by many. Bye Dexter.
James McConnell II
June 17, 2007
Dexter was not only my English teacher but also that of my brother and sister. We all liked him so much that he is the one teacher my mother still remembers from Palo Verde because we would talk about him so much after school. He was truly a special man who knew how to reach his students and I always enjoyed coming to his class. I am sure all the boys will remember the poster in his closet that would always put a smile on your face. He will be sorely missed.
Gerard Moretz
June 15, 2007
Dexter Johnson--a delightful human being who extended himself with sincerity and humor. I am better having known him and will miss him a great deal. My deepest sympathies to Beth and Burton.
Lisa Dickey (Thomas)
June 15, 2007
I am truly saddened to hear of Mr. Johnson’s passing. I spend two years in his English class at Palo Verde High School during 1984 and 1985. He is one of the teachers that I never seem to have forgotten. I used to love the way he would make fun of the bands we would listen to back then, “Motley Maiden” he would call one of them. My girlfriends and I would call him “Spu” after spumoni ice cream because he used to dress in colors that resembled that shade. He even signed my high school yearbook that way.
You will be missed Mr. Johnson.
Steven Roy
June 15, 2007
I grew up knowing Dexter Johnson. He and my Dad, Phil Roy (along with many other faculty members from Palo Verde, including Ash Silverberg, Verna Harcourt, Smith Minarik, Cynthia Schiesel, Paula Edgar, Roberta Stein, Bob Ford, Frank Kowalcek, Jerry Wharton, and Phil Archambault (just to name a few)) were close friends and I have many wonderful personal memories of Dexter Johnson, including my very first ski trip to Durango, CO. I also took his Creative Writing class my Senior year at Palo Verde (1982) and he helped me discover my (writing) voice. He was one teacher (of only a few) that challenged me to excel at something; not giving into the temptation of being ordinary, but striving to be extraordinary; to write with passion and feeling! To Beth: I extend my deepest sympathies and condolenses; Dexter was truly special and I mourn his passing with you and everyone who knew him. He was an inspiration. May he rest in peace. I will keep you (and yours) in my prayers. Steve Roy
Jenny (Owens)Coons
June 15, 2007
Wow, just yesterday I was in our family restaurant and saw many male teachers from Palo verde and one was missing. My sister Anna and I both commented on how it was odd that Dexter was not there. Now we know why. God bless you and your family Dexter. You were a great teacher and such a character. You will be missed. Know that you made an impact in so many lives, I have fond memories of you over my years at Palo Verde(1986-1990). We are all looking up at you lovingly and gratefully for your teachings and humor!! Take good care up there! Jenny(Owens)Coons
Dorothy Droegemeier
June 15, 2007
Dexter was funny, quirky, and most of all, accepting of teenagers! I never had him as a teacher, but I often spoke w/ him. I was glad to hear that after retirement he enjoyed the countryside. Rest in Peace Dexter!
Erin Mooney
June 15, 2007
Dexter was my favorite teacher from all of highschool! He had unconventional methods of motivating his students...such as: using a megaphone to yell funny comments out his classroom window at lunchtime and he'd make jokes while we worked in his advanced placement english class. He loved telling the students about his life and family and everyone who knew him felt they knew him well. I always thought about him after I graduated and I will continue to do so and pray for him...what a lovely man!
Carol and Michael Dobrzensky
June 15, 2007
My husband and I live across the street from Dexter and Beth in Shell Beach. We knew of his illness, but were shocked and saddened to hear of his death after returning home from our vacation. What has truly touched me is reading all the comments from his past students. He had touched so many young peoples lives and had made such a difference. His legacy of giving and caring will go on in his students. Michael especilly enjoyed working with Dexter on the homeowners association, of which Dexter was president. Dexter will be missed. Our prayers go out to Beth. Carol and Michael Dobrzensky
Erica Langworthy
June 15, 2007
What a sad day. I had Dexter for English 2 years at Palo Verde. I remember his as one of the funniest and kind teacher. I have always wondered what happened to his Twinkie in the closet. He always remembered me when ever I saw him, which I'm afraid wasn't often after I graduated. He will be missed. He was one I thought would be there forever.
mario bonaparte
June 14, 2007
This is truly sad, He was one of my favorites. Class of 1991
Joe Saputo
June 14, 2007
Dexter was a great neighbor and friend. He treated my family like gold and we will miss him dearly. Our prayers are with his family. We lost a kind man with a huge heart.
Joe Saputo & Family
Jason Bedgood
June 14, 2007
Dexter
was one of my Favorite English Teachers when I was at Palo Verde (class
of '92). I still laugh when I think of the time he had his leg shaved
for a pep-rally one year. Then there was the pink bamboo stick he had
in class. I will deepley miss him, him leaving this plaine will leave a
hole in the hearts of all the knew and loved him. I learned a lot from
him in and out of the class room. I was not one of the best student
when I entered his class but when I left that class at the end of the
samester I was a better one for having knowen Dexter. One thing about
Dex was that he had the class call him by his first name. He tried to
relate to his students and wanted the students to do the same with him.
I will miss Dexter very much and I wish his family all the best.
Laura Merry (Lang)
June 14, 2007
Dexter Johnson was one of the best teachers that I had while a student at Palo Verde (Class of 84). He was a favorite among the students and probably one of the most requested teachers. I will always remember him fondly. My thoughts are with his family.
Mary Lonsdale Baker
June 14, 2007
Dexter was a fixture in the English department when I began teaching at Palo Verde. He also taught my daughter Katie in her sophomore year. I appreciated his wild sense of humor, his quirkly, creative teaching methods, and his advice to me as a colleague. When he retired, the school shrank a bit. Condolences to his family, and fond memories of Dexter.
Keith Thompson
June 14, 2007
Although it has been 33 years since I had seen Dexter I remember him well. I remember that many times he would not sit behind his desk but sit on top of his desk. I remember how young he looked to be my teacher, how energetic and full of life wanting to share every story he had encountered with us all. It was about 1 year ago that Dexter contacted me about joining the Palo Verde Message Board. He was to be the first teacher to join. Then about 4 weeks ago Dexter had contacted me having trouble logging into the message board and wanted me to post his message. It was this message that allowed Dexter to reconnect with many of his students. Dexter you will truly be missed and may you rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, son, and extended family.
elaine caret
June 13, 2007
Not too long ago, I received an email from Dexter and Beth after several years of being out of touch. Many memories flooded in, especially of those very times when many of us would gather over a great meal. Last week I was looking for my favorite recipe for pecan pie; as I was flipping through the box of yellowed index cards, I found the recipe for "Dexter's Chili." It was always a treat to sit down to his famous concoction. I don't know what I enjoyed more--the fritos that garnished the chili or the de rigeur wedge of iceberg lettuce smothered in thousand island dressing. What a treat. How fondly I can look back on the many hours spent with Beth (a long-time colleague) and Dexter. I will pour a glass of wind in his memory.
Nicole Zanaglio
June 13, 2007
My condolences to Mr. Johnson's family. He was my junior English teacher (1990) and by far one of my favorite teachers. I will never forget all the fun we had in his class.
Joy Johnson-LeBarge
June 13, 2007
In one's educational lifetime there's always one teacher that stands out, that inspires and encourages in a way that somehow gets through all the crap that being a teenager entails. Mr. Johnson was my once-in-a-lifetime inspiration. He taught me to love the classics and find eternal truths within them. He taught me to love the English language, to work with it and massage it until it reflected the voice of my soul. And he taught me to love others, not because they are especially worth the loving, but because it made me a better person. Thank you Dexter Johnson. Your truth lives on in me and all the students who held you with inestimatable respect.
John Bowyer
June 13, 2007
I was a student in "Dex"'s English class (junior year, 1983). I remember him giving me a hard time about wearing my sunglasses (mirrored on the outside...of course) and eating sunflower seeds in class, which he didn't mind as long as I didn't throw the shells in the desk. Although I wasn't one of his star pupils, I remember getting good grades from him ("for the effort" he once told me.) I never saw him after graduation, but I have thought of him every now and then over the years. He was one of the best teachers I had. Rest in Peace Dex!
Linda (Valley) Leighton
June 13, 2007
I was so sad to learn of Dexter's death.My thoughts and prayers are with Beth, Burton and the rest of their extended family as they grieve this great loss in their lives.
William Sunday
June 13, 2007
Uncle Dex
where do i start? I love you!, AZ will never be the same. I will miss you, Beth our prayers are with you.
Love,
Willie
Barbara Bradley
June 13, 2007
Hi. I was one of Dexter's first students in 1966. He was my sophomore English teacher and I remember him MOST fondly. I loved his quirky sense of humor. One of the things I remember most of that time was his little Carman Ghia car parked in the parking lot. And--he recognized me immediately when I arrived at our 20th reunion...that was a huge compliment. I don't remember many of my teachers, but I remember him very very well. I am sorry I did not know about his illness. Otherwise I would have contacted him directly. I know he will be terribly missed!!!
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