Marvin Johnson, age 98, passed away in March 2024. He was born in November 1925 near Marion, ND. His parents were James W. and Helma G. Johnson. He was the youngest in the family with two older sisters, Madelyn and Lois. The family resided in Lisbon N.D. during the Great Depression so Marvin worked at a young age as a farm hand to help support the family.

During his senior year in high school Marvin joined the Navy in Jan 1944. He served as an electrician’s mate on the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown (CV-10) in the Pacific Theater, notably during the Iwo Jima and Okinawa campaigns. Marvin was always proud of his service in the Navy and in later years was seldom seen without his WWII Vet hat upon his head.

In 1947 Marvin met and married the love of his life, Florence. They raised a family of seven children. Marvin’s legacy is one of boundless support and love. He was a constant presence at his children’s sporting and academic pursuits, a testament to his belief in their potential. The couple enjoyed visiting family and after retiring in 1985 they enjoyed traveling and seeing the world. They were married for 73 years. They have 7 children, 17 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

Marvin lived a full life as a wonderful husband and father. Marvin worked as an electrical supervisor on large construction jobs in the US and Canada. Some of the notable construction projects he was part of included the Garrison, Oahe and WAC Bennet dams. He also worked on hydro power generation near Niagara Falls. Marvin completed his career at Decker Coal Co. Marvin had an adventurer’s streak in him and for example was among some of the last people to canoe down the mighty Peace River in the wilds of British Columbia before the river valley was flooded by the Portage Mountain Dam. The group accidently went through the famous Ne Parlez Pas Rapids. All three canoes in his party capsized in the rapids but with the help of an old trapper with a river boat they managed to re-group, salvage their gear and complete the journey in to Hudson’s Hope BC. He was generous, helped those in need, delighted in children and was a kind soul who never spoke ill of others. Virtuous, kind, selfless and without ego, he is a fine example of what it means to be a great role model.

He is dearly missed and forever in our hearts and memories.

Per Marvin's request no service will be held.

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