Merle Irvin Johnson

Merle Johnson, 71, of Lexington, Nebraska, departed this world Wednesday, May 5, 2010, south of Lexington as the result of a truck accident. He was born January 24, 1939, at Stockville, Nebraska to Irvin and Velma (Hand) Johnson. Merle grew up in Farnam and graduated from Farnam High School in 1957, where he was involved in football and basketball. Merle was united in marriage to Judith Ann Hudson on January 25, 1958, at Lexington. Four children were blessed to this marriage; Deb, Pam, Mark & Rick. He married Sharyn (Dunbar) Dangler on November 21, 1998 at Lexington. Merle moved to Lexington in the early 1960’s and started working at Dawson Public Power District in October of 1961. He also farmed during these years and spent nearly 40 years at Dawson before retiring in January of 2001. Following his retirement, boredom set in and he returned to work driving truck for Paulsen’s. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church, the Eagles Club and a past member of the PlumCreekers. He enjoyed yard work, going out to eat, taking long drives and being with his beloved dog, Buddy. He had a great sense of humor and always enjoyed a great joke. Merle will be missed by his family and friends. Survivors include his wife: Sharyn Johnson of Lexington, Nebraska Sons: Mark & Virginia Johnson of Kearney, Nebraska Rick & Darcie Johnson of Culbertson, Nebraska Daughters: Deb & Vonn Roberts of Lincoln, Nebraska Pam & Fred Maloley of Lexington Stepsons: Troy & Laura Dangler of Yuma, Colorado Chad Dangler One brother: Charles W. & Aileen Johnson of Kearney, Nebraska Three sisters: RoJean Gutherless of North Platte, Nebraska Roberta Seals of Arkansas Jeanette & Jerry Evans of Minatare, Nebraska One aunt: Donna & Ray Swanson of North Platte, Nebraska Eighteen grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Merle was preceded in death by his parents and “Buddy”. Funeral Services will be Saturday, May 8, 2010, at 10:30 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Lexington, Nebraska with Reverend Todd Karges officiating. Burial will be in the Evergreen Cemetery at Lexington. The casket will be closed and there will be no visitation. Memorials are suggested to the Family for later designation. Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Please direct Expressions of Sympathy and Condolence to the family at: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.