John Johnson Obituary

Affectionately known as Wendy, John Wendell Johnson, of Geneva, passed away on Tuesday, September 9, 2008 at the age of 80. Born on June 17, 1928 in Geneva, he lived his entire life in this area. A veteran of the Korean Conflict and farmer for many years, Wendy was a proud employee of the Larson-Becker Company in Batavia for the past 35 years. He also loved working at Headon Fine Meats in Creston and is featured on their website's team page. Saturday morning were always a special time filled with family, friends, stories and laughter. As a lifetime outdoorsman and nature lover, Wendy truly appreciated an respected all the gifts of Mother Nature. His hunting skills provided countless family meals and many creatures were rescued by his kindness. A 1985 Geneva Chronicle article featured his extensive Indian arrowhead and artifact collection. Several years ago, he became interested in woodcarving and took great pleasure in creating handmade gifts. Well know for his baking skills, many family and friends were the beneficiaries of Wendy's homemade cardamom bread and fruit pies. Wendy was well known for his involvement with the Geneva Park District. For decades he umpired softball games and supervised open gym sessions. Most recently, he volunteered numerous hours as Geneva Park District's Peck Farm Park and especially enjoyed the time spent speaking with children's groups. In recognition of his commitment, the Park District honored him in 2006 by dedicating the "Wendell Johnson Overlook" on Peck Farm's Wetland. An avid reader, he was also a member of the Friends of Geneva Library. Wendy is survived by his wife of 14 years, Jo-Ann; children, Kim (Gary) Ulfig of Glen Ellyn, IL, Phil (Susan) of Helena, MT, Noel (David) Jackson; grandchildren, Wyatt and Charlotte of Portland, OR; and brother, Kenneth (Nonie) Johnson of Lee, IL along with many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Claudia and a brother, Melvin. A memorial service celebrating Wendy's life will be held at a later date. Donations may be made in his memory to the Geneva Park Foundation, 710 Western Ave., Geneva, IL 60134; Friends of Geneva Public Library, 127 James St., Geneva, IL 60134; Casting for Recovery, c/o the Orvis Company, Historic Route 7A, Manchester, VT 05254. Arrangements were handled by the Yurs Funeral Home, Geneva, IL. (630) 232-7337 The Johnson Family extends its deepest gratitude to Dr. John Brayton, Dr. Robert Calabria, Dr. Ross Van Dorp and the entire staff of the 2600 Patient Care Unit at Delnor Hospital. Their loving care and compassion during this heartbreaking time will never be forgotten.