R. Earl Johnson

Earl Johnson, age 89, of Gladstone, Ill., passed away at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 31, 2009, at the Oak Lane Nursing and Rehab in Stronghurst, Ill. Born November 15, 1919, in Biggsville, Ill. he was the son of Floyd and Helen Johnson. He was raised in Biggsville and attended school in Dutch Row. On November 23, 1935, he married Margie Siens in Oquawka, Ill. She preceded in death on February 16, 2002. He trucked for Bill Bigger for several years. He was a bus driver and janitor at Union High School until retiring. He enjoyed playing ball with the Gladstone Clippers in his earlier years and golfing in his retiring years. He loved his family and going to the coffee shop with his friends. Survivors include one son Floyd Johnson of Peoria, Arizona, two daughters Ida Wolkenhauer of Mediapolis, Ia, and Donna (Mike) McGraw of Gladstone, Ill., seven grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. Also surviving are three brothers, Edwin (Margaret) Johnson, Everett Johnson and Clifford (Maida) Johnson all of Biggsville and three sisters ; Helen Chambers of Biggsville, Alleyne Kress (Al) of Colorado and Loris (Clarence) Blackburn of Texas, and several nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death are his parents, wife and two brothers. Services:A graveside service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2009, in the Biggsville Cemetery. Friends may call on Friday November 6, 2009, at Turnbull Funeral Home in Biggsville. No family visitation is being planned. A memorial fund is being established.