MERLE J. JOHNSON

Merle J. Jake Johnson, 87, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 8:05 p.m. Sunday, December 15, 2013 at his home on Little Crooked Lake. Born on November 11, 1926 in Yoder, he was the son of Alfred and Edith (Counsellor) Johnson.

He spent most of his adult life in Waynedale before moving to his home 10 years ago. He joined the Navy at 17 and served in WWII aboard the USS LST935. Following the service, he married Gloria J. Gibson in 1947. He had worked for over 50 years for Phelps Dodge, retiring from his full time position in 1991. He was a 60 year member of the American Legion Post 241. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and enjoyed fishing and hunting.

Survivors include his son, Michael (Carol) Johnson of Columbia City; brother, Robert Johnson; sister, Dorothy Patton of Ossian; granddaughter, Jill Johnson of Indianapolis; grandsons, Jeffery Johnsonand Alan (Trecia) Johnson both of Waterloo; and great-granddaughter, Hailie Johnson.He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; brothers, Raymond, Carl and Arlon; and sisters, Mary Doty and Norma Jean Snyder.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 19, 2013 from 5 to 7 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. His funeral service will being at 7 p.m. Military honors will be rendered by the Whitley County Korean War Veterans. Memorial gifts may be given in Jakes memory to Parkview Whitley Home Health Care and Hospice.Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.