John Phillip Johnson, 81, of Ankeny, Iowa, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2023. There will be no services per John’s request. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

John was born on April 13, 1942, in Marshalltown, Iowa, to John and Marie Johnson. He attended and graduated from Marshalltown High School in 1960.

John served in the United States Navy for 4 years during the Vietnam War. Upon returning home, he returned to college and graduated from the University of Northern Iowa. It was during this time that he met and married Jennie Lee Naylor. John and Jennie were married on August 16, 1969.

John loved and adored his two children and four grandchildren. During their “growing up years,” he attended as many of their various games and activities as he could to show his undying support.

John will be remembered for his love of Iowa Hawkeye sports, his dry sense of humor, and his time in Hawaii.

He is survived by his wife, Jennie; his son, Aaron Johnson (Alicia); his daughter, Dana Johnson Strother (Todd); his grandchildren, Haiden Strother, Gable Strother, Cal Johnson, and Camryn Johnson; as well as his brother, Gary Johnson. John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Marie Johnson.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in John’s name may be sent to the Salvation Army