January 29, 1944 – November 24, 2025
Harry Francis Johnson Jr., 81, of Lake Elsinore, California, passed away unexpectedly on November 24, 2025.
Harry was born at McClellan Air Force Base in Sacramento, California on January 29,1944—the first baby ever born there—to Mildred and William Bardwell Curts. His life was marked from the beginning by dedication, service, and strength.
Harry proudly served as a medic in the United States Army from 1962-1965. Following his military service, he earned an AA in Accounting from Cerritos College and a B.S. in Business Administration with an Accounting major from California State University, Long Beach. His career included work in Concrete Statuary at Johnson’s Garden Arts, serving as an Auditor with the General Accounting Office, and later working as an Assistant Field Director with the U.S. Customs Service.
Harry was married twice. His first marriage was to Linda Aycock, with whom he had two daughters, Sandee and Karee. His second marriage was to Sheryl Suchand, and together they had one daughter, Ashlee. Sheryl preceded him in death on October 7, 2019.
A man of deep faith, Harry was a committed Christian and a member of Emmanuel Reformed Church for more than 20 years. His faith guided his life, shaped his character, and strengthened the compassion he extended to others.
Harry was active in his community throughout his life. He coached youth sports until 2005, served as a dedicated Board Director of his HOA, was a member of H.O.G., Jeep Freaks Temecula, the VFW, and the American Legion. A proud veteran, he participated in the Run for the Wall, joining fellow riders on the cross-country motorcycle journey from Ontario, California, to Washington, D.C.
He cherished adventures shared with his wife Sheryl, especially their trips to Sturgis and their travels around the world with House of Lloyd. These journeys created lifelong memories and friendships.
Above all, Harry deeply loved his family. He was especially devoted to his grandchildren and was a constant presence in their lives. He attended their school events, cheered at their sporting activities, and celebrated every milestone with pride and joy.
Harry is survived by his daughters Sandee Johnson, Karee Gonzales, and Ashlee Gribble; his sons-in-law Joseph Turner and Kyle Gribble; his grandchildren Jozee Johnson-Turner, Jeeo Johnson-Turner, Kayla Gonzales, Rylee Gribble, and Makenzee Gribble; and his siblings Barbara Allman, William Bardwell Curts, James Bardwell Curts, Ana Maria Bardwell Curts, Jay Bardwell Curts, Thomas Bardwell Curts, and Steven Bardwell Curts.
He will be remembered for his generosity, humor, steadfast faith, dedication to family, and the steady presence he offered to all who knew him. His impact on his family, friends, and community will be felt for generations.
