Martin Lavern Johnson Obituary (1932 - 2021)

Martin Lavern Johnson, age 89, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2021 at his home in Clifton, IL. He was born on February 20th, 1932 in Milks Grove Township, to the late Arthur and Edith Johnson. He married the love of his life and best friend, Elizabeth Metz-Johnson, on June 28th, 1951. They shared in 69 beautiful years of marriage together. He proudly served 4 years in the United States Navy aboard the USS Harry F. Bauer, a Robert H. Smith- class destroyer minelayer. After the Navy, he worked for and then retired from the Natural Gas Plant after 30 years of employment. He farmed until the year 2000 and retired from raising lambs in the year 2004. He was a loving and proud father, grandfather and great grandfather to his 5 children, John Johnson (Genie) of McLeansboro, IL; Stephen Johnson (deceased); Mary Ramirez (Jose) of Bonfield, IL; Dan Johnson (Marilyn) of Kankakee, IL; Donald Johnson (Connie) of Clifton, IL; 11 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren. He was a devout Christian, becoming a member of the Kempton Church of the Nazarene in 1984. He faithfully served as a Sunday school superintendent, a Junior High Sunday school teacher and as a Greeter. He had a long-standing relationship with God and was blessed with his faith. In his earlier years, he spent some time raising beagle pups and competing in Field Trials, as being around dogs gave him great joy. He also found pleasure in fishing, gardening and bird watching. Family was the pivotal essence of his life. As the strong patriarch of his family, he had an unmatched strength that he developed by refusing to let his loved ones down. No matter how heavy the burden, he never complained. Even in his final days, if asked how he was doing, he would always reply "well, I'm just a little less than wonderful." He was a good friend to all, who dedicated many years of his life to helping others. He will be forever remembered for his beautiful smile, gentle eyes, caring heart, loving embrace and unconditional love. Although our hearts are heavy, we will celebrate his life and find comfort in knowing he is in heaven watching over us. A visitation will take place on Thursday, March 25, 2021 from 4pm to 7pm with services immediately following at the Kempton Church of the Nazarene in Kempton, IL. The Pastor John Mohler will be officiating. Funeral Services are to be held at a later date at the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL. This obituary may be viewed and guestbook signed at www.calvertmemorial.com