Merle Eugene Johnson

Merle Johnson, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and cherished memories.

Born March 21, 1936, in Sterling, Illinois, to Omar and Edna (Ricklefs) Johnson, Merle lived a life defined by resilience, hard work, and a deep appreciation for life’s simple joys.

Merle grew up in Sterling, where his kindness and charisma shone from an early age. It was there that he met the love of his life, Glenda Henson, at a local roller-skating rink—a chance encounter that sparked a lifelong romance. They married on July 2, 1961, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Sterling. Together, they built a strong foundation of love and family, even weathering challenges like relocating to Nashua after a devastating tornado in Charles City that took the house they were to move to.

After graduating from Sterling Township High School in 1954, Merle proudly served his country as a Radio Operator in the U.S. Navy. For four years, he was stationed in Long Beach, California, aboard the USS Princeton, where he demonstrated skill and dedication. Following his military service, Merle began a remarkable 40-year career as a Supervisor with Morton Buildings, a role he embraced with pride and commitment.

Merle’s passions reflected his zest for life. He loved cheering on his grandchildren at sporting events, making them malts, and sharing in their joy. A devoted Hawkeyes fan and Minnesota Vikings supporter, Merle also enjoyed snowmobiling, fishing, and traveling. Simple pleasures—like dining at HuHot, playing cards with family, and visiting casinos—brought him happiness. Known for his meticulous nature, Merle kept everything spotless and organized, a reflection of his pride in all he did.

Handy and resourceful, Merle could fix or create anything. His adventurous spirit and loving heart were the cornerstones of his family, inspiring everyone who knew him. His legacy is one of love, dedication, and living life to the fullest.

Merle is survived by daughters Andrea (Erik Kullenberg) Harrington of Seal Beach, CA, and Kim (Richard) Lefebvre of North Bay, Ontario; his son Steve (Connie) Johnson of Center Point; brother Jerry (Sally) Johnson of FL; sisters Joanne (Mark) Hershman of NY and Barbara (Bill) Olson of WI; sister-in-law Bev Johnson; grandchildren Joshua Buchholz, Kyle Johnson, Jeremy Harrington, Dustin Harrington, Mekayla Riddell, Ashley Ratliff, Lacy Fisher, Nichole Carlson, and Jaime Ihnen; many great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Glenda (Henson) Johnson; parents Omar and Edna Johnson; and brothers Verne and Lyle Johnson.

He will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those who loved him.