Evan Rudolph Johnson (Evan from Heaven)
went to be with the Lord on Dec. 2,2022 in O?Fallon, MO. He was 85
yrs old.
He was born on Septem?ber 1,1937 in
Hutchinson, KS, to Rudolph and Ethel Johnson. He was raised on the
family farm and loved farm life, which provided him with his strong
work ethics.
He graduated from Inman high school in
1955. He married Carolyn J Brauer on July 20, 1957, in McPherson, KS.
In 1958, he obtained a bachelor?s degree in Education from
McPherson College, McPherson, KS. He began teaching math and science
at Walton High school until it was closed in 1964. He then became
Principal of Walton Elementary School. Obtaining a Masters in School
Administration in 1969 from Emporia University. At that time, he was
transitioned into the USD 3 73 Principal of three rural elementary
schools: Walton, Suncrest, and Pleasant Acres. He was also bus
superintendent for these schools. You would see him driving a bus
many days, if it was needed. Sunset school was added to his
respon?sibilities when Suncrest and Pleasant Acres schools were
closed in 1992. He later transitioned to Principal at Lincoln
Elementary. Evan retired from USD #3 73 at the end of the 1996-97
school year after serving for 39 years. Unwilling to end his service
to education he agreed to a substitute Principal position with USD
#439, Sedgwick KS until 1999. In addition to these responsibilities,
he also taught adult night school classes in Newton for 15 years.
Evan always spoke fondly of his years in educa?tion and was loved
by the students, teachers, and staff. He was known for his kindness,
fairness and practical jokes. He cherished seeing the children as
they grew into adults and celebrated their successes.
Evan started a construction company,
employing His sons and their friends plus teacher friends. They
worked Saturdays, during the school year and in the summer months.
After retirement, Evan started Johnson
Jack Service, and worked out of his garage. His garage was a special
place to him, it was a sight to behold.
Evan?s favorite pastime was
collecting antique wrenches. He loved traveling with Carolyn and
their many friends. Their travels always included searching for new
treasures. He loved his once/week teachings at the Walton grade
school when he would discuss the tool of the week, providing
education and history on the tools.
He was a lifelong volunteer, recipients
of his service included his congregation at Newton Church of the
Brethren, Newton homeless shelter, Walton Lion?s Club, Walton City
Council member for 12 years and as Walton Mayor. He was a great
supporter of the Harvey County Fire District #1 from inception in
1992. He was a leader in opening the Walton Restaurant called the
Whistles top.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years,
Carolyn of O?Fallon, MO, three children, Merlyn of Walton, Greg
(Penney) of Walton, and LuAnn (Kip Connor) of St. Charles, MO. 9
grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and 2 great, great
grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents,
brothers Donald Johnson, Paul Johnson, brother in laws Richard
Brauer, La Vern Willems, Dennis Fry, Sister-in-law Nadine Willems,
and daughter in law, Debby Johnson.
A celebration of his life will be held
on December 17th at 10:00 am, at Walton Grade School, Walton, KS.
In lieu of flowers and an expression of
sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to Central Kansas
Community Foundation for the USD 373 Education Endowment Fund 301 N
Main, Suite 200, Newton, KS 67114.
