Robert Johnson

ROBERT P. JOHNSON

Maquoketa

Robert P. "Uncle Bob" Johnson, 59, of Maquoketa, died Monday, Nov. 24, 2014, at the home of his sister, Diane Griffith, in Mechanicsville. A celebration of Bob's life will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Carson

Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, where visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28. Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, with military honors.

Robert Paul Johnson was born April 1, 1955, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Paul L. and Jennie M. (Harding) Johnson. He was a 1974 graduate of Maquoketa High School. He then served four years in the Navy in the Mayaguez evacuation where the USS Coral Sea came in to bring our soldiers out.

Upon receiving his honorable discharge, he worked two jobs for a long time – Clinton Engines in Maquoketa during the daytime and Precision Metal Works (PMW) in Maquoketa during the nightshift. When Clinton Engines closed he continued to work at PMW for a total of 27 years, making a family of friends.

Bob was a member of Maquoketa American Legion Post 75 in Maquoketa. He enjoyed camping at 6B's, playing Euchre, hanging with friends and family, and his dog, Bandit.

Although Bob had no biological brothers he had a legion of "brothers" through work, camping at 6B's and his many friendships. He was the best brother, uncle and friend you could ever hope to have. All he ever did was help people, often times giving up his own needs for others.

In 2013, Bob continued with his act of giving by not only leading the way but also donating the gift of land to create what is now Jackson County Veterans Memorial Park.

Those left to honor Bob's memory include two sisters, Diane (Don) Griffith of Mechanicsville and Pam (special friend Mearle) Johnson of Dubuque; three nephews, Paul, Billy (Dee) and Marvin; two nieces, Mandy and Jayme (Robby); 12 great-nieces and great-nephews; two great-great-nieces; and his faithful dog and loyal companion, Bandit.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two nephews, SSgt. Donald Griffith Jr. and Noel Griffith; and a niece, Amy Griffith.

"When he found out he had cancer he didn't want anyone feeling sorry for him. We want to thank everyone for all you did for Bob. From working on the memorial park, driving him places, getting his mail and helping with many other things. Remember to stop by the Memorial Park and salute our soldiers when you go by because we all knew this was "Uncle Bob's" dream to see our heroes remembered and "yes" "Uncle Bob," you will always be one of our heroes.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Robert P. "Uncle Bob" Johnson memorial fund has been established.

Online condolences may be left at www.Carson AndSon.com.