Herbert Earl Johnson III, 93, of Sheridan, passed away Saturday, October 15, 2016 at the Sheridan Veterans Administration Medical Center. Born in 1923, Herb grew up in Denver, CO and graduated from South High School. Herb loved three things in his life: serving the Lord, his family, and every inch of the Rocky Mountains.
He participated in the “V12 program” at the University of Colorado and became a reserve officer in the United States Navy. He served aboard the USS Cabot as the catapult and arresting gear officer through the Pacific island hopping campaign in 1944 and 1945.
Herb met Charlotte Spier in Philadelphia. She was serving as a Physical Therapist at the Naval Hospital. They married in 1947 and lived in Cheyenne while Herb worked for United Airlines. They shared their lives for 67 years before she preceded him into heaven in 2014.
After getting his Master’s Degree at the University of Minnesota, Herb spent most of his working life teaching Mechanical Engineering, first at the University of Wyoming for three years and then at the University of Colorado for many years. His students benefitted greatly from his dedication to the art of teaching. He spent many hours helping students one on one. While living in Boulder, Herb and Charlotte were founding members of St. Andrew Presbyterian church, and then were very active in the Valmont Presbyterian Church. Herb spearheaded many church construction projects, and led the youth group including on several mission trips.
Herb and Charlotte moved back to Wyoming in 1999 because Charlotte “wanted a bucking bronco on their license plates again”. They lived in the Big Goose Valley near Sheridan until their passing. Herb and Charlotte enjoyed the expansive view of the Bighorn Mountains from their home. They were active in the Dayton Community Church for many years, making the Sunday drive down the Beckton road in their beloved 1988 Dodge Caravan – rain, sleet, snow, or shine. Again, Herb helped remodel the church and led the youth group. Herb and Charlotte volunteered for many years at the Sheridan VAMC at Fort Mackenzie, pushing patients around in wheelchairs to their various appointments. Later, they both lived at the VAMC nursing home during their last days. Both Herb and Charlotte appreciated the excellent care they received there from the staff.
Herb is survived by one brother, four children, three grandchildren, one great grandchild, five nieces and nephews and their families. Herb’s sense of duty and desire to live as his Lord’s servant in this world set a high standard. He will be missed.
In lieu of flowers, our Dad wanted any remembrances to be sent to the Jesus Film Project, PO Box 628222, Orlando, FL 32862-8222, or on-line at www.jesusfilm.org/ .
A Memorial service will be held at 12:30 pm, Sunday October 23, 2016 at Dayton Community Church, 210 Bridge St., with Pastor Matt Tremain officiating, followed by a buffet lunch and fellowship. Online condolences may be written at www.championfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Champion Funeral Home.
