Obituary: Donald Milton Johnson, 92, War Veteran

Donald Milton Johnson, 92, beloved husband of Elaine C. (Soderlund) Johnson for 62 years, passed away July 17, 2015 after a long illness at the age of 92. Born in East Greenwich, he was a son of the late William H. & Pauline (Bertholdt) Johnson.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his loving children, Karen Ann Johnson of North Kingstown and Gary W. Johnson and his wife Diane of Waterford, CT. He also leaves 2 granddaughters, Danielle and Kelsey Johnson. He leaves 14 nieces and nephews, including a very special niece, Donna Soderlund of Beverly, MA. Don was pre-deceased by his four brothers, Willard, Walter, Clifford, and Gordon Johnson.

Don graduated from North Kingstown H.S. in 1941 and 2 years later, joined the Army Air Corps, serving in Europe during WWII. After returning home, he married Elaine Soderlund. He was then hired as a full time technician with the RI Air National Guard for 31 years, retiring in 1983 as a Senior Master Sgt. He also served as a call man for the North Kingstown Fire Department for 25 years.

Don loved the Lord and was a lifetime member of Quidnessett Baptist Church, serving in various capacities. He enjoyed singing in the choir and also as a soloist. He enjoyed bowling, golf, camping, and many vacations overseas. He was a charter member of VFW Post 8018 and served as VFW State Chaplain for 3 years. He was also a member of Gideons International.

His Funeral Service will be held Thursday, July 23, 2015 at 11:00 am in Quidnessett Baptist Church, 6356 Post Rd., North Kingstown. Burial with full Military Honors will follow in Quidnessett Memorial Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Wednesday from 4-7 pm in THE CRANSTON-MURPHY FUNERAL HOME of WICKFORD, 140 West Main St., North Kingstown. Gifts in Don’s memory to Quidnessett Baptist Church or to Gideons International, P.O. Box 178, Wakefield, RI 02880 will be appreciated. For online messages of condolence, kindly visit www.CranstonMurphy.com