Dwight JOHNSON

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JOHNSON: Dwight Stanley Charles Johnson, March 17, 1935 - February 24, 2012. It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dwight Johnson. Dwight was born at the Misericordia Hospital in Winnipeg on March 17, 1935. He was the first of three sons born to Charlie and Rose Johnson. Dwight grew up on a farm south east of Minnedosa and began his early school years at Rookhurst Country School. During his junior high school years, Dwight attended the Clanwilliam School while living with his Uncle Dwight and Aunt Alice Montgomery and their family in Clanwilliam. Dwight began his working career with the CPR on June 26, 1952. Over the course of his 38 years with the CPR he had the opportunity of holding many positions ranging from shop worker, wiper, station worker, breakman, fireman and ending as an engineer. His work began on the old steam locomotive trains, at which time he acquired the railroader nickname of “Coldwater”. This name has affectionately stuck with him over the years. During the transition from steam engines to diesel locomotives, Dwight was laid off from the CPR allowing him to have further experiences in the working environment. He worked with his Uncles Johnny Johnson and Ernest (Tuff) Montgomery on their farms, transported cargo from BC with Keith Williamson, worked for Felix Alex on his farm where he shoveled many bushels of grain with his friend Dennis Brugger. He worked with Charlie Delmage doing delivery work. He had many other jobs to fill in the days until his return to the CPR. He officially retired on February 2, 1990. Not having told his family his plans, on February 2, 1990 he telephoned his wife from Bredenbury, SK, giving her the news that this was his last trip and that his brother Monty Johnson and Dave Pollon were coming with him. Bless the Manitoba Telephone System! Word flew like the wind and by the time his train’s headlight came around the corner a great many friends and family were waiting outside the station in a howling wind, blowing snow and –40 degrees to welcome him home. He officially retired April 4, 1990. Dwight was an avid reader and historian. You could find him reading history books anytime and on occasion would challenge tour guides on their knowledge of persons and events. He had a passion for collecting many things and loved to go “mining” with family and friends. He also loved to hunt ducks, and when time allowed, he trapped many a muskrat. Hours of enjoyment were spent by Dwight and friends in his great old shop, “Dwight’s Dog House”. A retreat for many, a wonderful place to expound on both serious and amusing topics and a few liquid refreshments served with crackers and cheese. Dwight also loved to travel and he especially loved Jamaica and England. He had the opportunity to visit both countries several times. He saw many of the United States and all the Provinces of Canada with the exception of Newfoundland. Dwight was predeceased by his father Charles Johnson (February 6, 1992), his mother Rose Johnson (February 19, 2006), his brother Ian Johnson (January 25, 2006), his father-in-law Fred Crook (December 6, 1989) and mother-in-law Annie May Crook (October 11, 1992) his brother and sister in law James and Dorothy Crook in 2010. He leaves behind his loving and devoted wife of 55 years, Joyce, three daughters, Diane and her children Hannah and Aidan Snider the only grandchildren, Lois (Kevin Harrison), and Cheryl. His brother, Monty Johnson (Leona); sisters-in-law, Grace Gwyer (Dean) and Betty Lou McKee (Ken), many nieces, nephews, cousins and his Aunt Bertha (Bun) Rudy (nee Montgomery), Aunt Margaret (Cecil) Montgomery and Uncles Donald (Irene) Montgomery and Robert Montgomery. Dwight and his family would like to extend their deepest thanks and appreciation to all of his friends and relatives who have stood with him during his last few months. Since he accepted Jesus Christ as his savior his greatest wish is that God’s grace and peace be extended to you all. The thanksgiving service for Dwight’s life was held at the Evangelical Covenant Church in Minnedosa, with Pastor Murray Carter officiating. A Eulogy was prepared and given by son in law Kevin Harrison. Pallbearers were: Robert Collen, Murray Hall, Calvin Cooke, Bryon Pollon, David Alexander and Michael Gwyer. Dwight was laid to rest in the family plot at Smoland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, and if you wish, Dwight would like you to make a donation to the Save Our Station Fund, The Salvation Army, the Cancer Society or a charity of your choice. He was much loved by many and he will be sadly missed. Rest in Peace.

As published in Brandon Sun on Apr 05, 2012