William "Bill" Robert Johnson Jr.'s Obituary
William "Bill" Robert Johnson Jr. age, 80, of Centerville, passed away Monday, July 14, 2025 at Centerville Specialty Care surrounded by loved ones.
Bill was born on November 9, 1944 in Benton, Missouri, the son of William Robert Johnson Sr. and Estelle (Goetz) Johnson. He graduated from Oran High School. On June 1, 1966, Bill enlisted in the United States Navy. During this time, he earned his Associates degree in Nuclear Engineering. He served his country faithfully, and was honorably discharged on May 12, 1969. He was proud to be an American and of his service to his country.
Following the military, Bill began working at International Harvester in Rock Island, Illinois. He then moved to California, and worked for A.R.C.O. for a period of time. Upon moving to Iowa, Bill worked as a maintenance man and electrician for various business in the area.On March 15, 1974, Bill was united in marriage to Linda Louthan in Dewitt, Iowa. To this union, three children were born, Travis, Melissa and Angela. He was a wonderful man who loved his family greatly.
In his free time, Bill was a jack of all trades. He loved to tinker and learn new things. He enjoyed fishing, hunting-especially pheasant, quail and deer, boating, water skiing-and teaching the kids how to, playing cards-mainly Euker, and camping. Bill had an active social life. He met many great friends, especially while camping. He called them his camping family.
Left to honor Bill's memory are his wife of over 51 years, Linda Johnson; his children, Travis (Valerie) Johnson, Melissa (Kevin) Becker, and Angela Ford; seven grandchildren; several great grandchildren; a sister, Jean (Dan) Clark; as well as several extended family members and friends.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William Johnson Sr. and Estell Johnson; and his in-laws, Morris and Pauline Louthan.Per Bill's wishes, cremation has been accorded. There will be no public services, per Bill wishes. Bill will be taken to the Veterans Memorial Cemetery in VanMeter, Iowa at a later date. Memorials have been established to Centerville Specialty Care, and may be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Johnson Family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at www.thomasfh.com or www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome.
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