Robert Edward Johnson

Johnson, Robert Edward, age 83, of Toledo, Ohio went to be with his Heavenly Father on Friday, May 15, 2009. Bob lived with Nina A. Johnson, his wife and one-and-only love of 61 years. They made their home at Alexis Gardens Retirement Community. Bob was born on January 20, 1926 and grew up on the East side of Toledo, Ohio. His parents were David Fulwood and Geraldine Michener Johnson. After graduating from Waite High School, Bob enlisted in the United States Navy in January, 1944. He was one of the 330 brave men who served on the U.S.S. Laffey 724-The Ship That Would Not Die- which survived attacks of 17 Kamikaze planes off the coast of Okinawa during WWII. A documentary Laffey Men has been written and produced by his granddaughter, Jessica Johnson Cribbs, to honor the ship and her crew. In 1948 Bob met Nina the love of his life at the A & P store. Shes the only girl for me ! he announced, and they married on August 24, 1948. Together Bob and Nina raised nine children: Raymond Johnson Kathy, Robert A. Johnson Laura, David Johnson Pam, Gerry Zemenski Bob, Ken Johnson Joyce, Tom Johnson Brenda, Tim Johnson, Suzanne Sears George and Mary Sweeny Paul. Bob was also the proud grandfather of 33 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Bob was a devoted, hard-working husband and father who taught his children and grandchildren the value of integrity and a strong work ethic. He loved his family, his friends, and his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In addition to the above, Bob is survived by his sister, Mary Alice Shank Homer. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his two brothers David Johnson and Harlan D. Johnson. Bob loved music and was gifted with a beautiful baritone voice. From sunrise to sunset he could be heard singing and whistling his favorite tunes. Bob was and avid student of the Bible, and a man devoted to friends and family. He was a voracious reader, particularly of mysteries and historical biographies. For decades Bob was a valued member at Second Baptist Church, where his parents raised him in East Toledo. He served Second Baptist in the roles of deacon, trustee, choir member and Sunday school teacher. Bobs career with FoodTown Supermarkets is still remembered by many who worked under his management. He was known as a fair and honest who truly cared about his employees and his customers. Upon leaving store management Bob began his Ballreichs Potato Chip distributorship in the greater Toledo area, a business from which he retired in 1992. Bob will be greatly missed. Visiting hours will be Monday, May 18th at Walker Funeral Home, 5155 W. Sylvania Ave. west of Corey Rd. from 1-8 p.m. where a Celebration of Life Service will be held Tuesday, May 19th at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Toledo Memorial Park. Memorial contributions to Cass Road Baptist Church, 1400 Cass Rd. Maumee, OH. 43614. Online condolences may be sent to www.walkerfuneralhomes.com