Warren Johnson

Warren D. Johnson, 92, of McPherson, KS, peacefully passed away on Friday, September 20, 2024, surrounded by his family at McPherson Hospital. 

He was born September 3, 1932, in McPherson, KS, the son of Elvin Leonard and Hildegarde Minnett (Ledell) Johnson. Warren graduated from McPherson High School in 1950 and attended McPherson College. On February 14, 1960, Warren was united in marriage to Willa Jo Straka at the First Congregational Church in McPherson. This union was blessed with two children, Kari and Kurt.

Warren was a Korean War veteran, serving in the United States Air Force from December 1951 to September 1955. He retired in 1993 after 40 years from the NCRA Refinery, working mainly in the instrument shop and carpentry shop. He also farmed and was an auctioneer.

He was a life member of V.F.W. Post #2715 and a member of New Gottland Lutheran Church.

Warren lived his life with kindness, generosity, and a love for the simple joys that often go unnoticed by others. To say he was a good man doesn't fully capture the depth of his character, his love for his wife of 64 ½ years, his love for his children and his three granddaughters, his love for his great- grandchildren, or his commitment to taking care of others. But that is who he was—a caretaker and a friend to many.

Warren’s priority was always supporting his family. While working at the NCRA full time, you could also find Warren working part time at Femco or delivering tractors to small towns in Kansas for McPherson Tractor, or farming for Gordon Almstrom, Darrell Thompson or Delbert Peterson - just to make sure his family had everything they needed. He never complained, and he always showed up, day after day, to provide for his family with love and dedication. Warren was also always looking out for his older relatives, especially his in-laws, Joe and Ruth Straka, making sure their needs were met. Whether it was stopping by to check on them, fixing something or mowing their yard, he was never too busy to lend a helping hand (although Warren also knew that they always had a piece of pie waiting for him!). He gave his time and his care without asking for anything in return.

Even though Warren worked hard, he knew how to enjoy life too. Warren was a lifelong fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and never missed a chance to cheer on the Kansas State Wildcats. Whether it was the excitement of a close game or just relaxing in front of the TV with his favorite teams, those moments brought him so much happiness. He loved the outdoors. He found peace in nature, especially on our family farm where he spent more than 20+ years helping Craig Larson, hunting deer and fishing in the Smokey River. He was always on the move, whether it was running in his younger years or later riding his bike. Warren was an avid reader of Louis L’Amour, immersing himself into the tales of adventure that mirrored his love for the outdoors.

One of the highlights of his life was being an auctioneer. He brought so much energy to those Monday night auctions. If you’ve ever been to one, you know how much fun they could be. His voice, his laughter, and his passion for the job made Monday nights something to look forward to, a time when the community could come together and enjoy the moment.

After he moved to the Cedars, he found comfort in the simplicity of porch life. You could often find him out there, people-watching, chatting with neighbors, enjoying a cup of coffee, or simply taking in the weather. He found joy in the little things. He never turned down a game of pitch, and more recently, he found companionship in his Monday cribbage group at the Cedars.

Warren lived a full life—one marked by kindness, activity, and a deep appreciation for the world around him. He taught us the value of family and of always enjoying the moment. Even in his later years, he remained active, engaged, and ready to live every day to its fullest. 

We will miss him terribly, but we know he’s watching over us with that same quiet strength and love that he always showed. His legacy is one of care and a deep connection to the people he loved. We will carry him in our hearts forever.

Warren is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Willa Jo; daughter, Kari (Sean) O’Halloran of Wichita, KS; son, Kurt Johnson of Norridge, IL; sister, Bonnie Holloway of Tucson, AZ; three grandchildren, Kelly (James) Olvera, Meredith (Alex) Ast, and Cecilia O’Halloran; six great-grandchildren, Camden, Lexi, & Beckett Olvera and Lillian, Parker, & Noah Ast; and many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Darlene Gibson.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM, Thursday, October 3, 2024, at Stockham Family Funeral Home. A graveside service with Military Honors will be held at 9:30 AM, Friday, October 4, at the McPherson Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will follow at 11:00 AM, Friday, at New Gottland Lutheran Church with Pastor Laura Smith officiating.  An elevator is available near the front entrance on the north side of the church.

To view a live stream broadcast of the service, PLEASE CLICK HERE.

Memorial donations can be made to New Gottland Lutheran Church in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.