Orvil (OJ) Andrew Johnson
One great fall day in Bentley, Alberta, October 24, 1936, Gus and Clara Johnson welcomed into the world their first son, Orvil (OJ) Andrew Johnson. Tragically, after being involved in a head on collision, September 8, 2011 at the age of 74, dad was taken from his family and friends while traveling to his home in Bergen. The sudden death of our father would bring us together to plan a celebration of his life, which was held at the Legion on September 15, 2011. It was overwhelming to witness the many family and friends who would travel near and far to pay their last respect to a great man. The celebration was filled with tributes from his children and grandchildren, music, tears and laughter. Dad would have been proud of the celebration which was led by friend, Keith Baxter. Over the past many years, music became a part of dad's everyday life, while attending jam sessions all over the province. He played with many musicians, creating long and lasting friendships, and was associated with "The Centennial Fiddlers" who would fill the hall with music as we remembered our dad. Dad became a successful businessman when he began O. Johnson Enterprises Ltd., while raising his family in Olds, Alberta. Not until we would all have children of our own, would we realize his role in helping to make our house a home. His role of grandpa was probably the best performance of his life, as he really was the definition of "grandpa". Even though he made time for his five children and his thirteen grandchildren, dad would also be sure to travel to Bentley to attend to his parents needs and was a strong leader of his five sisters and brother. Dad has left behind many friends who all have such great stories and memories of their encounters and journey through life over the last many decades. He will be missed by daughters Cathy (Harper), Susan (Grant), Valerie (Lappage), Carrie (Richardson) and son Michael Johnson. Dad will most certainly be missed by the son-in-laws Wayne Harper, Marvin Grant, Bob Lappage and Larry Richardson, whether it be his hunting trips or fishing, farming skills and motorcycle rides, brandings, or just visiting and listening and sharing his many stories or listening to him sing. There will be a void in the hearts of his grandchildren, Melissa, Meghan, Amanda, Ashley, Brogan, Matthew, Jordan, Danielle, Taylor, Morgaine, Emily, Austin and Cheyenne. Dad will be laid to rest between his parents in the cemetery in Bentley, Alberta at a later date.
Now that you've become a memory dad, these memories are our greatest treasure.
We will miss you dad.
In the wake of my brother's untimely death, I wrote him this letter.
Dear Orvil,
Your sudden passing led me to reflect on you, and on our lives.
This brought to the forefront some key issues that meant a lot to me.
I want to thank you, and let you know I will be forever grateful.
First: was your deep love and absolute caring for our parents.
You did so much for them over the years, and held them in such high regard.
It is only fitting that you should want your final resting place between the two of them.
You were blessed with fine qualities from both. You were hard working and wise like our mother.
From Dad you got a heart of gold, his mischievous ways and a passion for music and the outdoors.
In my eyes you were the pillar of strength in our family.
It was you I trusted to act justly and with intelligence in dealing with difficult and sensitive family matters.
It couldn't have been easy.
No one is without their shortcomings, but not everyone has the basic goodness and integrity of character that I saw in you.
Thanks Orv, for being you and for being my brother.
I send you my love
~ Adelle
ps: Give my love to Mom and Dad
Memorial tributes may be made directly to the Scott Band.
HEARTLAND FUNERAL SERVICES LTD., OLDS
entrusted with arrangements. 403-507-8610 www.heartlandfuneralservices.com