Stephen M. Johnson

Stephen M. Johnson, age 71, passed away peacefully at his home in Stayton on February 1, 2020. He was born on May 8, 1948 in Council Bluffs, Iowa to Jimmie Johnson and Wilda Franks. The family moved to California, where he attended Antioch High School and graduated in 1966. After graduation, he enlisted in the United states Marine Corps in 1967. He served in Vietnam until his Honorable Discharge in 1971. For his Honorable Service to his country, he received multiple medals including the Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Campaign and Service medals, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry and the Rifle and Pistol Expert Badges. Following his time of service, he went to Trade School to become an electrician. He started his career at Dow Chemical, and later went to work for Rain Sweet. He ended his career at Willamette Egg, from which he retired in 2009. Stephen married his life partner of 30 years, Lori Forsythe, on April 1, 2014. They spent many wonderful years together and he was her “Prince Charming”. He was described as extremely caring, loving, and a practical joker with a wonderful sense of humor. He loved going on car rides in the country, visiting the coast and collecting hot wheels and clocks. Stephen was preceded in death by his mother, Wilda Franks and stepfather, Joe Thomas. He is survived by his beloved wife, Lori Johnson; children, Stephanie and Nicholas Johnson; grandchildren, Sophia and Oliver Johnson; and sister, Jennifer Mason. His presence will be greatly missed. A Graveside Service with Military honors will be held at Willamette National Cemetery on February 25, 2020 at 2pm.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Breast Cancer Society.