Jeffrey LaDon Johnson, 67, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on December 3, 1958, in Ida Grove, Iowa, to Harold and Rita (Klausen) Johnson.

From an early age, Jeff had a love for the outdoors, music, and adventure. As a young man, he dreamed of living in Colorado, a dream he fulfilled in 1981 when he moved to Boulder to seek a life in music. In April of 1982 he moved to Johnstown. There, he combined his passion for music with his technical talents by running sound for the well-known Colorado country band, The Starlight Ramblers, becoming a familiar face in the local music scene.

On July 17, 1982, Jeff married Kerri Lillethorup and proudly embraced one of the most meaningful roles of his life – that of “Bonus Dad” to Patricia “Trisha” (Thompson) Yost. Jeff never viewed that title as anything less than being a father. His love was unwavering, unconditional, and intentional. He chose parenthood with compassion, patience, and a servant’s heart, creating a bond that remained strong throughout his life.

On November 16, 1986, Jeff welcomed his son, Alston Kragh Johnson, into the world. Being Alston’s dad brought him immense joy and purpose. He loved sharing his appreciation for the outdoors through camping, fishing and creating memories together that would last a lifetime.

On December 5, 1999, Jeff married the love of his life, Cathy Johnson. Together they built a life centered on love, laughter and family. They spent more than two decades together in Johnstown before relocating to Pocahontas, Arkansas, in 2022 to begin a new chapter together. Their marriage was marked by devotion, friendship and a deep love for one another.

Jeff will be remembered as a man whose quiet strength, generous heart, and steadfast love touched everyone fortunate enough to know him. Whether lending a helping hand, enjoying the outdoors, listening to music, or simply spending time with those he loved, Jeff made people feel accepted, valued and cared for. His legacy is one of unconditional love, kindness and unwavering dedication to his family.

Jeff was a member of Grace Community Church in Johnstown, and when he moved to Pocahontas, Arkansas, he became a member of New Bethel Baptist Church. 

He is survived by his parents, Harold and Rita Johnson; his beloved wife, Cathy Johnson; his daughter, Patricia “Trisha” (Danny) Yost; his son, Alston Kragh (Candace) Johnson; his brothers, Randy (Karen) Johnson and Steve (Lisa) Johnson; his sister, Tasha (Craig) Cox; his granddaughters, Kailen (Brig) Hartson and Harper Johnson; a grandson, Dalton (Pri) Yost; and numerous nieces and nephews and many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by grandparents, Kenneth and Evelyn Klausen, and Leland and Marjorie Johnson; godparents, Dwayne and Garna Klausen; stepsons, Michael Ray Trupp (21) and James LeRoy Trupp (35); aunt, Barb Hansen; and uncles, Bob Johnson and Denny Johnson.

A celebration of Jeff’s life will be held today (July 16) at 11 a.m. at Grace Community Church in Johnstown. A reception will follow in the community room and then burial at the Johnstown Cemetery. 

Though Jeff’s earthly journey has ended, the love he gave so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him. His greatest legacy was not found in what he owned or accomplished, but in the people he loved and the lives he quietly changed through his faithful presence, and unconditional love.