Van Johnson

HASHAN KEHK — Van Johnson, 76, died on July 20, 2026, in Tucson. Mr. Johnson was born on July 27, 1949, to Jessie Marrietta and John Johnson Jr. in Santan, a member of the Gila River Indian Community.

He attended Stewart Indian School in Nevada, where he participated in various athletics, including as a cross country runner, which allowed him to attend Northern Arizona University. He enlisted in the Army and served two tours in Vietnam as part of the 1st Ranger Battalion, long-range reconnaissance patrol and the 101st Airborne Division.

He served as an officer and investigator on the Gila River Police Department for 17 years, then was a lineman for San Carlos Irrigation Project before medical retirement. He enjoyed being outdoors hunting, fishing, working around the house, playing basketball and softball and taking day trips to different casinos. He enjoyed sharing his knowledge with everyone and was known for his humor. He was devoted to his family.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Cynthia Johnson; two sons, Sherwin Johnson Sr. and Godfrey Nish; two daughters, Vannette and Jessica Johnson; a brother, Carlos Johnson; 12 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by daughters Sheltrina Cruye and McKala Nish, sons Donovan and Delvin Johnson, three grandchildren and 10 siblings.