George H. Johnson's Obituary
George Harold Johnson passed away, Saturday, June 1, 2013 in the early morning. This was only befitting, as he always started his day early; especially when it threatened to hold a new adventure.
George was born on April 16, 1935, in Portland, Oregon to Oline Tobine (Danielson) and Harold George Johnson. He grew up in the North Plains area on family property with his parents, an older sister, Olga, and both sets of grandparents.
George went to grade school at the Mason Hill one room school house; he attended Holbrook junior high, and then went on to Scappoose Union High School, as it was then known. He played basketball and football, lettering in both each year. He graduated in 1954.
In 1957 George met and married Marilyn Joan Levin. Soon after he joined the Army and they were off to Lawton, Oklahoma, where they spent the next two years. They had two daughters, Joy Oline and Julie Kay. In 1970 they divorced.
George had many occupations throughout his life. He owned a Union 76 service station, had his own janitorial business (Matt’s Maintenance), worked for Pacific Power and Light and Lucky Logger, and did long haul truck driving. However, his true passion was always for logging.
One of George’s greatest blessings in life was his friends. He had so many good friends; some of whom he’d known since childhood. And there was nothing he enjoyed more than a good conversation. He loved to talk, but was just as good at listening.
In his forties, George returned to the family property and set up his own home. He lived there on the mountain until the last two years of his life when health issues required him to live with his youngest daughter, Julie and her family.
George is survived by his sister, Olga, his two daughters, Joy and Julie, and two granddaughters, Pia and Tabatha. His youngest granddaughter, Kajra, preceded him in death in May 2011.
George will be sorely missed, but there is no doubt he is in Heaven enjoying great conversations with friends and loved ones he hasn’t seen in quite awhile.
Visitation is Friday, June 7 at Columbia Funeral Home in St. Helens. The Funeral Service is Monday, June 10, 2013 at 2:00 PM at the Old Scotch Church – 30685 Scotch Church Road in Hillsboro.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.columbiafh.com.
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