Joseph L. Johnson

Although Joe would probably tell you that he lived a simple and boring life, he did much and accomplished many things during his almost 90 years. He played basketball, football, and ran track as a young man. He grew up farming, had his first class radio and telephone license, learned Morse Code during his time in the Army (and could remember this still). He had his degree in mechanical engineering and spent 32 years working for the Bureau of Reclamation as their expert on elevators and hoists where he did work on the Grand Coolee Dam and Hoover Dam visitors center. Joe received a United States Patent for developing an improved fertilizer tine for applying anhydrous ammonia to corn crops. He designed and built midget stock cars that were raced at Lakeside.

With all he accomplished in his life, Joe would tell you that his biggest accomplishment was marrying the love of his life, Betty in 1965. Theirs was a true love story that produced two children who were very loved, and 4 grandchildren who were completely adored. Everyone that knew Joe enjoyed his company, his stories, and his sense of humor. His family knew unending, unconditional love and support. He will be gravely missed, but we know that he's right where he wants to be: In the loving arms of his wife Betty.