James Johnson's Obituary
James Johnson was born in Argonia, Kansas on July 14, 1926 to Aliza and Sherman Johnson. He served his country during World War II in the Army Air Corp for the 316 Bomb Wing in Okinawa. After service, he attended Kansas State University, in Manhattan, Kansas, where he graduated with a degree in Food Technology/Engineering. When he talked about college, he always mentioned the GI Bill which was instrumental in providing him with his education. He eventually relocated to Dallas, Texas where he was living when he met and married Joyce R. Welchel 51 years ago.Jim, along with 2 co-workers, purchased Van Tone Company in 1974, which designed food and beverage processing systems. He worked there until his retirement in 1990.He was a member of Lakeside Baptist Church at his passing. Through Lakeside Baptist Church and his earlier involvement with Audelia Road Baptist Church, he formed many lifelong and treasured friendships that continued to this day.He played basketball in college and as a result was an avid fan of all sporting events especially anything Kansas State. Additionally, his college degree had an engineering component. Therefore, his handwriting was beautiful and his attention to detail was legendary. “Everything has a place” was a motto he lived by. The only thing he loved more than his wife was her baking, especially German chocolate cake.In addition to his wife Joyce, he leaves behind 2 children, Shirley R. Saenz and Donald R. Welchel (wife Deborah) and 2 grandchildren, Kyle and Kevin (wife Amber) Welchel and 2 great grandchildren Evelyn and Isaac Welchel. He will also be missed by his 3 nieces and their families, Robin, Sherie and Kelly of Jackson, Mississippi.The service will be help at Restland Funeral Home, 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75243 in the Memorial Chapel on Friday, May 4, 2018 at 2:30 pm.
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