Kenneth Howard Johnson, born in Waldron, Arkansas on July 25, 1932, went home to be with the Lord forever on February 28, 2016.
He came to Wagon Mound, New Mexico in 1946 with his father and paternal grandparents, then moved to Raton with his young family in 1952. His passion and career was driving trucks which he began doing before old enough to own a driver’s license. He drove for the Phillips Corporation Saw Mill, Walt Lemons Trucking, Ward Transport, Segotta Trucking, Crespin Trucking, Payne Obyrne Trucking, but for the greatest number of years drove for Santa Fe Trail Transportation Co. from 1957 to 1975 accumulating over a million accident-free miles.
Those who left this world before him were his parents Walter Raymon and Pearl Lee Barron Johnson; brother Walter Barron Johnson; sisters Jane Anne Vigil and Betty Jo Hathoot.
He leaves behind Mary Ena, his loving wife of 65 years; one son Kenneth Wright (Lynn) Johnson, two daughters Louella (Bill) Cook and Darlene (Daniel) Harbour; grandchildren Benjamin “Chip” Romero and Ryan Freeman, Cassy ( Keith MAJ USAF ) Quick, Kurt Johnson LCDR USN (Chris Kieszek LCDR USN), Kaley Johnson-Gonzales and Victoria Gonzales, and step grandson Troy Cook. Also surviving are two sisters Mary Edna Jacobs and Sarah (Harry) Galassini, two sisters-in-law Laura (Simon) Medina and Elena (Jack) Glascock, many nieces, nephews, great and great-great nieces and nephews. Last, but not least, his constant companion Taffy.
Kenneth was a deeply devoted family man and touched the lives of all those around him. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Raton. A special enjoyment for him was dinner with family and friends and he wasn’t shy about being first in line. He was witty, had a tremendous work ethic, commitment to family, and could tell the funniest stories of his younger days. He loved working and spending time in the quiet peace of Ocate. His later years were spent outside “piddling around” as he called it, reminiscing old times, rooting for the Broncos and listening to Willie’s Roadhouse. He enjoyed lunching with friends at the Senior Citizens’ Center which he called the Old Folks Café.
He is now watching out for his family and friends from above. His spirit and heart will live through those he left behind. Vaya con Dios, Kenneth.
Funeral service will be held Friday, March 4, 2016, 10 am at the First Baptist Church in Raton.
Arrangements are under the care of the Yaksich-Long Funeral Home in Raton.
