David O. Johnson

David Oral Johnson Jr., 91, passed away Tuesday, February 14, 2012 at the Center for Hospice, Elkhart. He was born on January 17, 1921 to David Oral and Anna (Shield) Johnson in Mishawaka. David was the oldest of five children and worked hard since the age of nine to help provide for his mother and siblings, after his father died. He grew up in the town he was born, attending Mishawaka High School, where he met Jeanette P. Winger. He married her on May 30, 1941. In an effort to serve his country, David joined the US Army. He proudly served in World War II, until he was honorably discharged, returning home with a Purple Heart. Then, he and Jeanette continued their family; they had two children, Ronald and Sue Ann. Dave worked as a meat cutter for Wilts Super Market and other local meat markets, until he retired at age 65. He was a hard working loving family man, who was dedicated to his wife and children, and later his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Dave was a member of the Bremen Bible Church. He lived his life as a light unto others. He and his wife of 71 years raised their family to know God and to share this love with everyone. Dave will be greatly missed. This man left a great and positive mark on all of those he knew with his beautiful, encouraging smile, great sense of humor, and charitable spirit.

David is survived by his wife Jeanette; a son Ronald L. (Connie) Johnson of Syracuse; a daughter Sue Ann (Rich) Grewe of Mishawaka; five grandchildren Steve (Bridgette) Johnson, Pamela (Louis) Gerber, Shelly (Mark) Essig, Kevin(Jami) Grewe, and Stacy (Curt) Novotny; 13 great-grandchildren Shawn Johnson, Ryan Johnson, Leigh Ann Dearing, Paige Korenstra, Austin Gerber, Tyler Essig, Marquis Essig, Dawson Essig, Lauren Grewe, Lindsey Grewe, Lance Novotny, Logan Novotny, and Landon Novotny; eight great-great-grandchildren; a sister Adalyne McDonald; and several nieces and nephews.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers Dick Johnson and Chuck

Johnson, and a sister Treva Reynolds.

A funeral service will be held at the Bremen Bible Church on Saturday, February 18, 2012 at 10:30 AM and will be officiated by Pastor Duane Beals. Burial will follow the service at the Bremen Cemetery.

Friends may call on Friday, February 17, 2012 from 4-8 PM at the Mishler Funeral Home, Bremen.



Memorial contributions may be made to the Bremen Bible Church.