Ellmar Dean Johnson

Ellmar Dean Johnson was born to Inez Fulton Johnson and Julian A. Johnson on December 17, 1932, in Anthony, Kansas. The family lived in Kiowa, Kansas. His father taught Agriculture at the local high school. His mother was a Kindergarten teacher. His mother was killed in a traffic accident on the way to a new home and teaching position for his father in Buhler, Kansas. His paternal grandmother and his maternal grandparents cared for him until his father remarried, when Ellmar was 5 years old. His stepmother died suddenly when he was 7 years of age. His father married again while Ellmar was still in elementary school. He spent lots of time with his maternal grandparents during the summers.

He started his college education right out of high school. His studies were interrupted when he enlisted in the army rather than be drafted so he could choose his area of interest. He specialized in electronics. He left the army after three years and resumed his college studies. This time graduating with a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering. He married Arlene Helen Vail at College Hill Methodist Church in Wichita, Kansas on January 19, 1958. They moved in June to Los Angeles where Ellmar was offered a position with North American.

In 1961, he went to work for the Autonetics Division of North American (later became Rockwell International). This began his work in computers. He developed programs for engineers to use in building missiles. He had a special gift for this type of work. He just knew that a particular type of programming would work much to the frustration of those who spent hours using mathematical equations to get the same results.

He made presentations at conferences and co-authored a textbook. He continued to take classes in computer programming. He developed a computer program to determine the eligibility and ranking of students for admission to the nursing program at San Bernardino Valley College. This program was used for over 25 years.

He enabled the installation of wireless connections for computers in the Family Life Center Building.

Ellmar was an avid reader. He loved Science Fiction and Religious books that challenged him to think about his faith and beliefs. His church was an important part of his life. He participated in bible studies and held a variety of leadership positions in various churches over the years.

After retirement, he became involved in genealogy and spent many hours researching his family history which included traveling to various locations.

Ellmar was a gentle soul and loved the outdoors. His family has many wonderful memories of camping, hiking and vacations combined with business trips. Ellmar was caring and accepting of others. He exemplified unconditional love.