Walter G. Jr., 82, South Fork, went home to be with the Lord, July 1, 2017, at home. Born October 27, 1934, in St. Michael, son of Walter G. Sr. and Bertha Rose (Danel) Johnson. Preceded in death by parents; sister, Louise E. McClelland, and infant children, Steven and Melody.
Survived by loving wife of 62 years, Sally (Hutzell) Johnson, whom he married October 10, 1954; children, Timothy, married to Patricia (Varner), Mineral Point; Jamie, wife of Larry Locke, Winter Haven, Florida; Randall, married to Tammy (Neri), South Fork; Wendy, wife of Jeff Boyd, Windber; and Eric, married to Paula (Krug), Mt. Hope; 16 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
Walt graduated from South Fork Croyle High School in 1952 and then went to work for Impala Motors as a mechanic. Along the way he also served as a part time police officer until 1971 when he was named Chief of Police for South Fork Borough. He served the community for 28 years until his retirement in 1994. He was also a retired First Sergeant with Co. A, 876th Engineer Battalion, Pennsylvania Army National Guard, where he served for 27 years. Following his retirement he was elected to serve as a Pennsylvania State Constable. Walt was an active member of the South Fork Volunteer Fire Department and the Mainline Police Association. Faithful member of South Fork First United Methodist Church, where he served in many offices and was a member of the Men’s Bible Class. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, and sportsman and loved spending time outdoors with family and friends. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren at their many activities and games. He also enjoyed many sports, having played football for South Fork Croyle and for the semi-pro Portage Bulldogs. For many years he played softball for Chuck’s Tavern and the church team. He also enjoyed playing basketball for the church team where he was a player coach for 6 state championships. He was a devoted husband, loving father and cherished grandfather. Though we are saddened he is gone, we have peace and joy because he knew Jesus as his personal savior and is now spending eternity in his presence.
Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Charles O. Dimond Funeral Home, Inc., South Fork.
Viewing also at First United Methodist Church from 10 a.m. until time of funeral service at 11 a.m. Thursday, the Rev. Terry Trudgen officiating.
Interment, South Fork Cemetery.
As an expression of sympathy please consider memorial donations to Windber Hospice, 600 Somerset Ave., Windber, PA 15963.
Military graveside service by St. Michael American Legion Post 551.
www.DimondFuneralHome.com