Marshall K. Johnson

Marshall Karl Johnson passed away at the age of 102 on the family farm he tended alongside his wife of 79 years, Sharlet. A farmer to his core, he took deep joy in seeing his children, grandchildren, and perhaps his great‑grandchildren carry on the work of the land the family has cared for since 1950.

Born in 1923 to John Burton and Christianna (Zimmerman) Johnson, Marshall grew up in a large farm family where duty and grit came early. After his father’s death, he went to work at age 13 at Maxi Manufacturing Co. on Main Street in Catawissa to help support his mother, remaining a loyal employee of the valve factory for 48 years. He often said the secret to a long life was simple: hard work and keeping your hands busy.

During World War II, Marshall served in the United States Army (89th Division and 83rd Division) in Europe under General Patton’s Third Army. He fought through major campaigns, including the Battle of the Bulge, and witnessed the liberation of concentration camps. Following V‑E Day, he served in the occupation forces. Throughout the war he exchanged letters with Sharlet—introduced by his sister—and the two married soon after he returned home, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love, family, and shared labor.

Marshall was a member of the East Greenwood Hunting Club for some of his life, and passed down his hunting and fishing skills—as well as a trove of stories—to the younger generations. 

Marshall’s love for family was evident, especially in his playful interactions with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and the joy of family and little ones nearby kept him going strong well into his advanced years.

Marshall was preceded in death by his parents and his 11 siblings. Marshall is survived by his wife, Sharlet; daughters Karen (David) Lanning and Kathy Young; and son Ken (Mary) Johnson; five grandchildren: Michael (Cathy) Lanning, Clint (Cindy) Young, Mickey (Jay) Woodcook, Kenneth (Karine) Johnson, Victoria Johnson; eight great-grandchildren: Keaton (Amanda), Lakelyn (Bryce), William, Aurora, Amelia, Kamiah, Alijah, and Zerelda; many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews; and two sisters-in-law, Mary (Steve) Campbell and Betty (Patrick) Gallagher. 

He leaves behind fields well-tended, a family well loved, and a legacy of work, service, and levity.

Services will be held Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 10:30 AM at the Canby Lutheran Church.  Burial will be in the Canby Cemetery with full military honors by the Columbia County Honor Guard.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to the Canby Lutheran Church, 529 Millertown Road, Bloomsburg, PA 17815.   Arrangements are under the direction of the McMichael Funeral Home, Inc., of Benton. The McMichael Funeral Home Inc., of Benton, is honored to serve the Johnson Family.  For online condolences or for additional information, please visit our website:  www.mcmichaelfuneralhome.com

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