Msg(Ret) Russell W. Johnson

Master Sargent Russell W. Johnson (Retired) passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, June 6, 2015. Visitation will be 6:00 -7:00 p.m. at Vance-Brooks Funeral Home, 4048 Macon Road in Columbus, Georgia on Sunday, June 7, 2015. For those who wish to attend, a graveside service will be held Monday, June 8, 2015, beginning at 2:00 p.m. at Park Hill Cemetery. Russell Johnson was born June 3, 1935, in Floodwood, Minnesota. Son of the late Ernest William and Helen Marie Johnson. Other than his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother Clarence Ernest and his sister Dorothy Helen. Russell joined the United States Army in 1955 and served for over 22 years. While stationed in Germany, he met his wonderful wife on New Year's Eve 1956. He retired from the Army in 1977 and went on to work on the Alaska Pipeline. After retirement, he and his family settled in Columbus, Georgia. Russell then worked for Civil Service for 19 years before finally retiring in 1999. He was a member of the Disabled Vets, VFW 665 and the American-Canadian Grand Lodge 822. Survivors include his loving wife of 57 years, Katharina (Katie) Johnson, son Bruce and wife Irene, daughter Cindy and husband Eddie Hofstetter, son James and wife Kelly. He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Lydia and Russell Hofstetter, Ethan, Seth and Matthew Johnson, and Jacob and Joshua Johnson and one great-grandchild Aubrie Johnson. On-line condolences can be made at our website, www.vancebrooksfuneralhome.net.