Robert D. Johnson

Robert D. Johnson

Robert Dale Johnson, 82, of Knoxville, died early Saturday morning from possible diabetic causes.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, December 13, 2006 at the Bruce-Graham Funeral Home and Cremation Center with the Rev. Stephen Peters officiating.  Interment will follow in the Fort Dodge Memorial Park Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.

Robert was born February 8, 1924 the son of Milford and Rose Marie (Scharff) Johnson in Cooper Township near Estherville, IA.  Robert was a graduate of Fort Dodge Senior High School with the Class of 1941.

On January 28, 1943 Robert was inducted into the United States Army Infantry.  During his service to his country he earned the following decorations and citations; WWII Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal, American Theater Ribbon, AP Theater Ribbon and two bronze service stars, Philippine Liberation Ribbon and one Bronze Star GO 23 Hq USAFFE 45, Purple Heart GO 31 Hq 8th Evac Hosp 45, and one Bronze Oak Leaf  Cluster.  Robert served in the Northern Solomons and the Southern Philippines.

In November of 1948 Robert was united in marriage to Mildred “Millie” Cartee; to this union two daughters were born.

Robert was a Linotype by trade for several newspapers over the years including Lohrville paper, The Daily Freeman Journal, Webster City, Knoxville Express, and the Des Moines Register until the modern technology was adapted.  Robert then found employment with the VA Hospital in Knoxville for 15 years.

Robert was very good about taking the girls on vacation especially when he could include a major league baseball game.  He also enjoyed allowing people to park in his back yard during the Knoxville Nationals.  He looked forward to their company and the friendly atmosphere they brought to town.

Robert is survived by his two daughters; Robin Lori Winton of Escondidio, CA, Tanya René Hayden of Fort Worth, TX; eight grandchildren ; three great-grandchildren.  He is also survived by former wife and life long friend, Millie Elam of Fort Dodge.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents.

Bruce-Graham Funeral Home