Volney Walter Lohman

October 20, 1915-April 15, 2012

Volney Walter “Walt” Lohman passed away peacefully April 15, 2012 at his home in Winton, CA. Walt was born October 20, 1915 in Wray, CO to Harvey Calvin Lohman and Lottie Angeline “Angie” Dunlap (Lohman). He was 96.

Walt married Mary Alta Harris Evans April 27, 1946 in Lakewood Village, CA. They were together 57 years until her death October 28, 2003. Walt is survived by his two children, William “Bill” Lohman (Mary Dean) of Hemet, CA and Sharon Lohman of Winton, CA; four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Walt also leaves behind his very, very faithful beloved canine companion, Nonnie. He is preceded in death by his wife, parents, sister, and two brothers.

Walt grew up in Colorado farming alongside his father. When he moved to California he did various jobs but always wanted to go back to farming. After many years in California he was able to buy the farm he has lived on for the last 61 years. Happy at last to farm once again which he did until he was close to 90 years old. He loved farming. While arguing with his doctor at 93 years of age about why he should not be farming any longer the doctor asked him if he had any hobbies. He replied, “Yes, farming”.

Along with farming he loved children and animals. Many, many times he brought in the latest “catch” to show his children whether it be cats, dogs, snakes or his favorite, Horned Toads. Walt was kind and giving and a prankster till the end.

He often talked of his 4th great-grandfather, John Dunlap. Walt grew up hearing stories of John Dunlap who came over from Strabane Ireland in 1756 at 10 years of age. In 1771 he published the newspaper the “Pennsylvania Packet” which was changed in 1784 to the first daily newspaper printed in the United States – the “North American and United States Gazette”. John went on to be appointed printer of congress and printed the “Dunlap Broadside” and later the “Declaration of Independence”. He was an officer in the first troop of Philadelphia calvary, which became the body-guard of George Washington at Trenton and Princeton. John Dunlap gave 4,000 pounds to supply provisions to the Revolutionary army.

A celebration of his life will be held on April 21, 2012 at 11:00 A.M. at the First Southern Baptist Church of Winton, 7264 W. Myrtle Ave., Winton. A reception will follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to New Beginnings for Merced County Animals, 6065 Vine Ave., Winton, CA 95388 or to the building fund, First Baptist Church of Winton, P.O. Box 97, Winton, CA 95388.

Arrangements are under the direction of Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home.