Kenneth Wayne Johnson

Kenneth Wayne Johnson, age 80, of New Philadelphia died Thursday, May 22, 2014, in Amberwood Manor at New Philadelphia following a period of declining health.

A son of the late Frank and Lelia (Helmick) Johnson, Ken was born at Uhrichsville, Ohio on October 19, 1933.

Following his graduation from New Philadelphia High School, Ken entered into the United States Navy in 1952 where he proudly served his country as an Electricians Mate aboard the USS Nersus prior to his discharge in 1956.

On August 1, 1958, Ken married the love of his life, the former Mary Hershberger and together the couple reared three children.

Professionally, Ken continued his work in the electrical field as an employee of Abbott Electric at Canton for 25 years.

He was a longtime member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers #540 and a former member of the New Philadelphia Eagles and VFW.

Ken’s love for the water continued throughout his life as he greatly enjoyed boating and taking cruises with his wife. He also enjoyed golfing where he was a familiar face for many years at Five Waters Golf Course.

In addition to his wife of 55 years, Ken is survived by his children, Anna (Tom) Miller of New Philadelphia, Eric (Lisa) Johnson of Jacksonville Florida and Steve (Scott Liggett) Johnson of Akron, and three grandchildren, Terrin Miller of New Philadelphia, Gabrielle (Jermey) Renner of North Canton, and Adam Johnson of Jacksonville, Florida. Completing the family are numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Ken was preceded in death by three sisters, Martha Ontko, Dorothy Yontz, Rosmarye Archinal, and a brother, Richard A. Johnson.

The family will greet guests on Tuesday, May 27, 2014 from 4:00 – 7:00 PM in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia. Pastor Jim Borton will lead a service celebrating Ken’s life in the funeral home’s chapel on Wednesday, May 28, 2014 at 10:00 AM. Burial, with military honors, will follow in the Evergreen Burial Park at New Philadelphia. Following services, all are invited to join the family for a time of food and fellowship in the Geib Family Center, adjacent to the funeral home.

Memorial contributions in Ken’s name may be directed to Community Hospice of Tuscarawas County, 716 Commercial Avenue SW, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.