Kenneth E. “Ken” Johnson Sr.

Ken served in the United States Air Force from 1954-1959 before marrying his wife, Ethel Pruner Johnson, on November 7, 1959. A precise man, Ken worked at Musser’s Nursery in Indiana, PA before he and Ethel moved to Jamestown where he worked as a machinist at MRC-TRW-SKF from March 1967 until March 1999.

Generosity defined Ken’s life. He was the ultimate “best neighbor,” plowing snow from the entire street’s walkways and driveways, for families young and old alike. For Ken, it wasn’t about knowing everyone’s names or about their comings and goings; rather, it was his innate servitude that led neighbors to both notice and raise concerns about the couple’s well-being throughout Ken’s last days.

Inside of their home, Ken was a perpetual re-decorator. After learning how to wallpaper, he became a wallpaper animal, redoing the walls of the house every six months. Moreover, if there was a piece of furniture or a room Ken thought needed spiffing up, he did it his way without consultation.

The outdoors was his happy place. Ken manicured his home and lawn to a T. He treasured both fishing and hunting with anyone who would join, but especially with his son, Ken. Amongst the golfing community, he approached legend status with his dedication to the game on a 6-day basis despite weather conditions. It was customary to see Ken and his two best friends, Glen and the late Ernie, using orange golf balls to play rounds in the snow.

Forever recounting his military days, Ken loved playing airplane games on his computer. He fancied “flying” to old bases where he was stationed, saying, “I flew to Nebraska today!” Traveling was a must; distinctly, Ken and Ethel took beach vacations to Myrtle Beach twice per year for over 20 years. He also favored the sights and sounds of the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.

Pets played a human-like role in Ken’s heart. He loved all animals, especially his dogs. Shelby and Molly were revered four-legged pals to Ken.

Admittedly letting him down each year, Ken remained a devoted fan of the NY Mets, the Buffalo Bills, and the Buffalo Sabres.

Alongside his wife of almost 65 years, Ethel, Ken will be deeply missed by his children: Kenneth “Ken” (Kellie) Johnson, Jr. of Ellery Center, Karol (Dale) Rahr of Kennedy, and Karen Trujillo; grandchildren: Jason (Cindy) Erwin of North Carolina, Jennifer (Matthew) Rich of Colorado, Justin Whippo of Jamestown, Krista (Shawn Himes) Johnson of Jamestown, Jamie (Michael) Cembrola of South Carolina, Kristy (Andy) Young of West Seneca, and Kyla Rodriguez of Jamestown; step-grandchildren: Jamie (Tim) Juul and Katie (Dan) Nagel; great-grandchildren: Conner and Colin Erwin, Logan and Lauren Rich, Camden Cembrola, Ella and Julian Young, Willa and Lydia Nagel, and Adelynn Juul; and siblings: Richard (Ann) Johnson of Baltimore and Larry (Pat) Johnson of Clymer.

Besides his parents, Ken was preceded in death by brothers: William, James, Gary, Don, Ron, and Kevin Johnson; and a sister, Arlene Lear.

In keeping with his wishes, no services or visitation will be observed. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Chautauqua County Humane Society, 2825 Strunk Road, Jamestown, NY 14701.

To leave a condolence, please visit lindfuneral home.com.