Neal C. Johnson
May 16, 1953 - June 16, 2021
Neal C Johnson’s beautiful soul left this world on June 16th. Even the angels were heard whispering, “it’s much too soon,” as they ushered him into their arms and carried his beautiful bright soul away. Neal was the most amazing father and grandfather. He taught his children so many things, where do we begin? He gifted many of his talents to his children. To his son Christopher, he gave his musical abilities. Chris can sing just like his father could. Loud, on key and with purpose. He can play instruments just like his father could, as well. Neal was a talented musician, who played many instruments throughout his life. His son, John, was gifted his art of communication. Neal could hold the attention of a room and speak so eloquently. John carries this on for him forevermore. He gifted his daughter Dawn her strength and compassion. He gifted his daughter Sarah the power to be strong, both with her words and her spirit. He taught her to persevere. He taught his children that they could do anything they put their minds to. His support knew no limits. Neal told jokes, made friends with everyone he met, loved his job in public relations and loved his family, so much. Neal left this world but his legacy lives on amongst all who met him.
Neal left this world in the way he always said he wanted to go, in his sleep. Yes, it was mid-day, but he was restful. He was not in pain. His family is incredibly grateful for this. Neal knew and loved his lord, Jesus Christ and we are forever comforted knowing that he is looking down on us all from heaven.
Neal was a jokester who could have an entire room laughing. He was a supporter who helped those in need by volunteering. He was an amazing father who leaves behind his wife, Lynne, four children, John Johnson (Marisol), Christopher Johnson (Victoria), Dawn Tanner (Jordan) and Sarah Stanojevic (Nemanja). He was an amazing grandfather as well to Silas Tanner and Solana Johnson who often called him Papa and Pop-Pop, respectively.
Neal was loved. He was most certainly loved. Neal texted his children and their spouses nearly every day, telling them how much he loved them, excessively using emojis to signify his infinite love. Neal would say that he had 8 children as they all held a special place in his heart, just as much as his grandchildren did. Neal loved his wife and his family.
He loved his three brothers Gary, Dan and Bill. He would frequently have breakfasts with his brothers and enjoyed this immensely. He loved their wives and children as well. This wonderful man had so much love to give, there were no limits.
Neal was a Master Mason, a member of the moose lodge and was on a multitude of boards, most notably the St. Jude board, which was so incredibly important to him as St. Jude saved his daughter’s life years ago.
Neal loved golf, dancing with his wife and most of all, playing with his grandchildren. Neal will always remain in the hearts and minds of all who met him and we will all be forever grateful for every moment we were blessed to have him.
A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at Grace United Methodist Church 601 N. 4th St., Pekin. Pastor Eric Swanson and Pastor Judy Kennedy will officiate. A visitation will be Monday, June 21, 2021 from 4:00-7:00 PM at Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory, 2131 Velde Dr., Pekin. An additional visitation will be Tuesday morning at the church from 9:45-10:45 AM. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family to help with expenses.
To express condolences online, visit www.hendersonfuneralcare.com..