JOHNSON, Donald B., Sr.

Arizona Daily Sun, Flagstaff, AZ Sunday, October 24, 2010 Donald B. Johnson Sr., 94, of Flagstaff, died at home in his sleep on Oct. 21, 2010, with family at his side. He was born April 19, 1916, in Battle Creek, Mich., and grew up in Evanston, Ill., where he met and married his Mary. Mr. Johnson moved his family to Phoenix in 1948 to work for Central Arizona Electric Company, which is known today as Arizona Public Service. In 1958, he transferred to Flagstaff. While with APS, he was instrumental in putting the first electric lines from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon to Phantom Ranch and the first electric lines on the Hopi Reservation. He retired from APS in 1979 and was active in the APS retiree activities (including keeping Fort Valley Road litter free). Mr. Johnson was very active in the Flagstaff community. His activities included: Coconino County Planning and Zoning Board (1960s to early 1970s), Optimists Club, St. Vincent de Paul (helped to open the store), Salvation Army, Knights of Columbus (fourth degree), Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, both Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, and working with Mrs. Johnson in Pilot Club. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson participated in the NAU student exchange program. Mr. Johnson is survived by three sons, Donald B. Johnson Jr. of Flagstaff, Kenneth A. Johnson of Hackettstown, N.J., and Vincent J. Johnson of Flagstaff; three daughters, Mary Beth Benedict of Rivera Beach, Md., Carole L. Kopeikin of Phoenix and Rita Anne Johnson of Phoenix; 11 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; 12 nieces and nephews; and many grand-nieces and grand-nephews. He was preceded in death by his spouse of 69 years, Mary; his sister, Betty; and brother Ben. A rosary will be recited and visitation will be Monday at 7 p.m. at the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. A funeral service will be Tuesday at 10 a.m. at the same location. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, 2113 N. East St., Flagstaff, AZ 86004. Condolences may be left for the family at www.norvelowensmortuary.com. Norvel Owens Mortuary is handling arrangements.
Posted by Sharla on October 24, 2010

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