Mr. Roderick E. “Rod” Johnson, 94, of Maquon, Illinois died 9:14 a.m. Sunday, May 15, 2022, at OSF St. Mary Medical Center, Galesburg.
He was born April 8, 1928, in Galesburg to James and Margaret Johnson. He married Marian Briggs. She preceded him in death. He then married Mary VeNard. She preceded him in death. He later married Carol Schneider. She preceded him in death.
Surviving are his children, Cynthia S. Powelson of Galesburg, Larry Johnson of Galesburg, Patty Brimberry of Texas, a stepson, Dannie E. (and Jeanie) Pickel of Galesburg, and a daughter-in-law, Fay Johnson of Springfield, Illinois, seven grandchildren, five great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Rod “Roddy” Johnson, a brother, Ted Johnson, and a sister, Margie Pedigo.
He is also survived by his best friend, Marilyn Carr of Gilson, and a special Home Health Care Nurse, Ashley Masters.
Rod served in the United States Army from 1946 to 1947. He worked through heat, cold, storms and blizzards as a lineman for Illinois Power Company and L.E. Myers until his retirement. But then he decided he couldn’t sit still and didn’t want to entirely retire, so he went to work for Johannes Bus Service with School District 205. He drove a school bus for many years until finally retiring completely. At the age of 93, he took on his fear of flying and flew in a Stearman Bi plane. He enjoyed it very much. Later that year he went on the Quad Cities Honor Flight accompanied by his friend, Jane Nichols. He enjoyed going to the American Legion and playing cards every Tuesday and Thursday. He had many friends there that he looked forward to seeing each week. He felt most at peace at home and outside. Working in his yard, gardening, and mowing. He also loved bird watching and feeding his birds which attracted many beautiful species. He loved the outdoors even when it rained and snowed.
As Rod requested, cremation will be accorded. A private graveside committal service will be at the Rock Island Arsenal Cemetery with military rites by the Moline Honor Guard. Memorials may be made to the Quad Cities Honor Flight. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Service Galesburg Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
