Services were held June 27 at First United Methodist Church in Jefferson for Rudolph (Rudy) Walter Johnson, age 88. Rudy passed away peacefully June 25, 2020, while in hospice care at Greene County Medical Center in Jefferson.
The Rev Charlie Thompson, pastor of Greenbrier Methodist Church, offered words of comfort. Gary Haupert was soloist, accompanied by Lula Garnes.
Casket bearers were Steve Schnebly, Doug Lawton, Rod Frederick, Gene Weaver, Luke Hoyle and Matthew Hoyle. Interment was at the Greenbrier Township Cemetery with graveside military rites by a United States Marine Corps honor guard, and VFW Post 9599 and American Legion Post 11 of Jefferson. “Taps” was played by Victoria Chargo.
Rudy was born September 13, 1931, in Chicago, IL, to Gust and Taletta Husvik Johnson. The family moved to the farm in Greenbrier Township in Greene County in 1937. Rudy lived, then farmed there, the rest of his life.
Rudy graduated from Bayard High School in 1951. As a youth, he was involved in 4-H, basketball, and softball. As an adult, Rudy continued playing sports for many decades.
In 1952, Rudy became a Marine and was stationed in Japan for two years during the Korean War. He was also in the Reserves for six years, receiving an honorable discharge in April 1960. He was a 58-year member of the American Legion. Rudy belonged to the Floyd W. Brown American Legion Post #11 and the David M. Mosher V.F.W. Post #9599. Rudy honorably represented both organizations by faithfully performing military funeral honors and Memorial Day services. He also served as color guard for parades and football games.
Karen McCool and Rudy were married on December 4, 1966, in Guthrie Center. They divorced in 1984.
As a regular blood donor, Rudy was able to donate over 50 gallons. Rudy was also a cancer survivor and participated in the Survivors’ Walk at Greene County Relay for Life.
Rudy and long-time friend LaVonne were avid dancers (waltzing was their favorite) for almost 20 years.
While a life-long member of the Greenbrier United Methodist Church, Rudy faithfully attended Sunday services.
Rudy is survived by his brother Charles (Susan) Johnson; several nieces and nephews and their children; and brother-in-law Dennis Naughton. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Anne Naughton.
Rudy’s final resting place is Greenbrier Township Cemetery alongside his parents.
Memorials may be made to Greenbrier United Methodist Church, V.F.W. Post #9599 in Jefferson, American Legion Post #11 in Jefferson, or Relay for Life of Greene County.
Services by Slininger-Schroder Funeral Home, Jefferson
