James H. JohnsonJames Howard Johnson passed away peacefully on October 17, 2016 at the age of 82. He was born on July 7, 1934 in Caldwell, Idaho to Clyde Harold "Jim" Johnson and Emma Mae (Howard) Johnson. He had one brother, Thomas Johnson. James was a second generation Idaho native and attended Garfield Elementary, North Junior High School, and graduated from Boise High School in 1952. He attended Boise Junior College. James joined the
US Navy in 1954. He served on the USS General Mitchell until 1958. During this time, while on leave, he met the love of his life, Shereen Tyner. They were introduced by a neighbor living across the street from his parents. They began dating and corresponding. After his discharge from active duty, he returned to Boise. James and Shereen were married on June 29, 1958. He worked for Robertson Auto Body and the Boise Fire Department for the first few years of their marriage. James and Shereen began their life adventure and created a tightly bound marriage and friendship that lasted for 58 years. They had five children born between 1960 and 1968. James returned to active duty in the US Navy in 1963. The Navy transferred the family to Tacoma, Washington. Next on the adventure, he and the family were transferred to Grand Rapids, Michigan; then to Denver, Colorado; and finally to Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas. James retired honorably from the US Navy in 1980 after more than two decades of service. At this time he was able to fulfill his dream of relocating the family back to his beloved hometown of Boise, Idaho to be near the extended family. James began his second career as an Operations Manager working for Blake, Moffitt and Towne and later Unisource. He retired in 1999. James had a passion for gardening, and had a green thumb that was unmatched. He instilled that love of gardening to his family. He and Shereen's vegetable garden, fruit trees and grape vines were enjoyed by all. As his COPD progressed, he was unable to continue gardening, but Shereen lovingly continued with the tradition. More than anything, he loved his family and thoroughly enjoyed toasting a perfect martini and barbecuing steaks for the family on a Saturday afternoon. As the years went on, martini time was a beloved tradition any time the family could get together. There was no man more caring for his family, and who carried himself with honesty, integrity and humility. He was truly the finest example of a husband and father.James is survived by his beloved wife, Shereen; five children: Lori Dawn (Andy), Jeff (Christine), Dan, Mike, and Debra (Matt), and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Tom, and granddaughter Megan.No formal services are planned, as were his wishes.
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