Charles D. Johnson

Charles ‘Chuck’ Johnson, 85, of Mason City, Iowa passed away peacefully on Monday October 31, 2016 at the Good Shepherd Health Center with his family at his side. Funeral services will be held at 11 AM Friday, November 4, 2016 at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 North Pennsylvania Ave. with the Rev. Kent A. Mechler, Good Shepherd Chaplain officiating. Military Honors will be conducted by the Mason City Veterans Memorial Association. Visitation will be held from 5 until 7 PM Thursday at the funeral home. Memorials may be directed to the Charles Johnson Memorial fund in care of his family.

Charles was born November 30, 1930 the son of Ole A. and Amy (Hanson) Johnson on the family farm in rural Kensett, Iowa. He enlisted in the United States Air Force at the age of 17 and became an aircraft welder serving in the Korean War. He was stationed at Missawa Air Base and Kunson Air Base, Korea. Chuck was discharged from the Altus Air Base, OK

Chuck was working as a welder for Chicago Bridge and Iron in Tulsa, OK when he met the love of his life Patricia McPherson. The couple eloped to Woodville, MS on September 13, 1955. The couple traveled all over the southern states as Chuck built water towers. The couple later moved to Austin, MN where Chuck drove truck, in 1959 they moved to Mason City where he was employed as a driver for Jorgenson, Briggs and Fast Foods. Charles was a member of the Teamsters during his career. He participated in truck rodeo’s in Cedar Rapids and Des Moines placing 2nd each time.

Chuck and Pat started a monthly feed at the Moose Lodge and continued at the Elks Lodge for residence of Opportunity Village. They continued this tradition for 25 years giving the residence a night out. The couple received the “Giving Your Best Award” and were awarded Hall of Fame honors at Opportunity Village. They also earned volunteer awards at the Elks Lodge.

Charles was a lifetime member of the VFW. He was also a member of Highland Park Golf Course and the Men’s Club President. He was very proud of his 2 hole-in-ones. He had a favorite saying “I never gave strokes, makes you a better golfer”. Chuck was an avid snowmobiler, racing for Polaris. He drove in the modified class and cross country races.

In his spare time he enjoyed woodworking, building benches, quilt racks, planters and golf ball racks. Chuck had a natural talent for drawing and was a very gifted painter.

Charles is survived by his wife of 61 years, Patricia Anne; daughters, Denise (Denny) Largent and Mary Johnson of Mason City; grandchildren, Leslie Hoffman and special friend Keith of Mankato, MN, Melissa (Karl) Nelson of Mason City, Nicholas Largent and special friend Catherine Staudt of Mason City; great grandchildren, Ashley and Heather Hoffman of Mankato, MN, Hunter Nelson of Mason City; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mr. Johnson was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Alice Bork, Lorraine Thome, Doris Knutson; brothers, Laverne and Orlan Johnson.