Harley A. Johnson

Harley A. Johnson, 94, of Geneseo, passed away on Thursday, September 21, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Memorial visitation will be held from 3-5 PM on Sunday, October 1, 2023, at Vandemore Funeral Home & Crematory-Geneseo Chapel. Memorial services will be at 10:30 AM Monday, October 2, 2023, at the funeral home with Pastors Barry Wynveen and David Mohler officiating. He will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery-Geneseo. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to Harley’s family to be dispersed to his favorite charities. Condolences can be left at www.vandemorefuneralhome.com

Harley was born November 21, 1928, the son of John A. and Alfreida (Carlson) Johnson.  He graduated from Geneseo High School, class of 1946. On May 11, 1947, he married Shirley E. Wigant, in Geneseo.  Harley owned his own business “General Plastering Service” for many years.  He was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Geneseo, enjoyed duck carving, making jewelry, attending his grandchildren’s activities, playing bingo at the community center, and daily conversations at McDonald’s.  In his earlier years he was an avid bowler, enjoyed golfing, and fishing.  He was also a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife of 76 years, Shirley Johnson; son, Steven A. Johnson of Dekalb; daughters, Lynette Johnson, Joleene (Rich) Fluegel, and Vanessa (Todd) Tarkington, all of Geneseo; grandchildren, Dee (Tom) Buttgen, Christopher (Raina) Johnson, Travis (Meagan) DeSplinter, Keith (Dennale Yarbrough) DeSplinter, and Tanner and Tucker Tarkington; nine great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; six step-great grandchildren; and seven step-great-great-grandchildren.

Harley was preceded in death by his parents, John and Alfreida Johnson; brothers, Harold, Reynold, and John Johnson; and grandson, Anthony Johnson.