Keith M. Johnson, age 89, of Miles City passed away on Monday, June 30, 2014 at the VA Nursing Home in Miles City.
Keith was born on July 21, 1924 in Tacoma, Washington, the son of Belle and Mark Johnson. He attended schools in Miles City, graduating from Custer County High School in 1942. Keith married Phyllis Johnson on September 26, 1944. Keith enlisted in the service on December 12, 1942 where he served as First Lieutenant in the 5th Airforce piloting the C46 over the Pacific. While in the service he received several medals including the American Service Medal, Asiatic Pacific Medal with 6 bronze stars, Philippine Liberation Medal and the WWII Victory Medal. Keith helped Brig. Gen. Paul H. Prentiss’s Troop Carrier command and write a new chapter in transport operations by participating in one of the first flights by his unit in recently captured Philippines Islands Airdromes. Keith was honorably discharged on April 21, 1946. Following his discharge, he worked for the Milwaukee Railroad until 1951, moving to Kinsey, Montana where he farmed and ranched. He retired and moved into Miles City in 1995.
Keith was a member of the First Baptist Church, Life member of the Elks Lodge 537, Life member of the VFW Post 1579 and a Master Mason.
Keith is survived by his daughter, Renee (Chuck) Strand of Miles City; grandson Jason Schieffert of Miles City; great grandchildren: Cassidy, Morgan and Owen all of Miles City. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 68 years Phyllis Johnson, his brother-in-law Herb (Brenda) Johnson.
Funeral Services will be held on Monday, July 7, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at the VA Chapel in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Eastern Montana State Veteran’s Cemetery with full military honors. Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Miles City is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Janet Buraas Klein says
Renee, There is such a thing as too much too soon and this is exactly how I feel with the loss of your dad. If there could be a way that I could take some of your hurt and pain away, I would surely do it, however, you will have to endure this sadness and numbness by yourself, my friend! I will be there for you and have a shoulder for you to cry on or a friend to talk to, scream at or just to be around to keep you company. God never gives us too much to handle at one time but he does try us sometimes and that is just how you must feel at this time in your life, but know that he is by your side and will help you heal from the immense sadness! You are in my thoughts and prayers and if you need anything at all, please call and I will be there….my hugs and love!!
Eileen & Vern Entzel says
Renee and family, You are in our thoughts and prayers. Your parents were such a great couple and I know they are dancing away in that wonderful place above. I know this has been a hard time for you and it is never easy to say goodby to a parent. Remember that God brought you to this and he will get you through it. Prayers and hugs are with you.
J Johnson says
Dear family of Keith M. Johnson – I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May God give you peace and comfort through his sure promises to end pain, mourning and death (Revelation 21:4). At that time no one will say “I am sick” (Isaiah 33:24). Almighty God also promises to fulfill our future desires (Psalms 145:16). Cherish all the happy memories of Mr. Johnson and I hope you are comforted by Bible promises (John 17:3).
Ruben and June Opp says
Renee and family, We were so sorry to hear about the passing of your father ,grandpa and great grandpa but our thoughts and prayers will be with you all during this time and the days ahead. May God bless and comfort you all.
Ruben and June Opp
Marie Farnum Kluver says
Renee and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Your parents were always so nice to visit with.
Sandi & Mark Toennis says
Renee and family,
We are so sorry about your dad. What a wonderful guy he was. He had such a great smile and outlook on life. You are in our thoughts and prayers.