After a lengthy battle with leukemia, Walter Johnson, of Coronach, SK, passed away into the arms of Jesus on June 6, 2018. Walt will be greatly missed but lovingly remembered by his loving wife of 69 years, Irene; children: Gordon (Shirley) and Joanne (Calvin) Planz and their families; extended family and many friends. Born in Willow Bunch on September 18, 1928, Walter was the 5th child of 6 children born to Jim and Mae Johnson. He grew up in the Hart district and attended Berg school. By his own admission, he wasn’t the best of students and was often more interested in what was happening “outside” the school rather than “inside” the classroom. At the end of grade 8, Walt (as he was known) remembers a teacher asking him if he’d be returning to school in the fall. Walt said “no” and the teacher replied “I’ll give you a pass then”. Following school, Walt worked for various farmers then spent a year working for an uncle. For wages, he received an unbroken horse and over time that horse became his only means of transportation, at least for a while. As he got older, Walt thought it would be nice to see the world, so with his parent’s permission he signed up for the Navy, eventually serving as a ship steward serving officers. In 1948 he returned to Saskatchewan and began working for Jim McPeek. It was there that he met the love of his life Irene. They were wed on March 17, 1949. Following the marriage, Walt went to work for the CPR but in 1951 returned to help his father in-law on the farm. In 1952 Gordon was born and in 1958 a daughter, Joanne, joined the family. Around 1960, Jim and Dora McPeek retired to Coronach and Walt rented their land. Little by little the farm was purchased, one quarter at a time. In 1983, Walt and Irene sold the farm and moved to Coronach. Walt was 55 years “young” at the time and took on custodial duties at Pretty Valley Lodge, a role he performed well in to his 80’s. In 2004 the decision was made to sell their home and they moved to Southwinds Manor, where they enjoyed many friendships. Walt had various health challenges over the years but was never one to complain. A Celebration of Life was held Saturday, June 9, 2018 at the Alliance Church in Coronach, SK with Pastor Walter Willford officiating. Scripture reader was niece, Jacquie; eulogy was given by son, Gordon; biography was read by granddaughter, Jennifer; pianist was Dorthea Thrithardt; soloist was Shirley Johnson; Urn and wheat spray bearers were granddaughter, Vansessa and great-granddaughter, K’enna. Interment was in Berg Cemetery, Coronach, SK. Fond memories, pictures, condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.rossfuneralservice.com for the Johnson family. Arrangements entrusted to Ross Funeral Service, Assiniboia, Sask.
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