Bennett Johnson Obituary

Bennett "Ben" Johnson

Bennett "Ben" Johnson, 66, joined his Heavenly Father on Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2022, surrounded by those he loved the most.

Ben was a true southern gentleman. He was confident and charming, never without a bright smile, always a mischievous twinkle in his eye, and rocking one of his signature colorful hats. Ben's story began Dec. 23, 1955, when he was born in Chilhowie, Virginia, to Dolly Ann (Yarber) Johnson and Earl D. "Shark" Johnson. He was raised in Bristol, Tennessee, but has called Ohio his home since the age of 15. He grew up knowing the value of hard work, importance of family, and had an unwavering faith.

Ben found success as a self-made man, business owner, and tradesman in an extremely demanding and niche field of work for more than 40 years. Ben was a member of a unique breed of tradesmen called "Steeplejacks" and routinely risked his life performing work that few would have been brave enough or talented enough to consider. He scaled water towers across the country to re-surface, paint, inspect, etc. He was also no stranger to heavy equipment and could be relied on to skillfully navigate his extensive line of heavy excavating equipment and semi-trucks.

Ben's personality was larger than life. He could be equal parts strong willed, stubborn, ornery, loving, and affectionate. His magnetism was every bit undeniable as it was engaging. Ben ensured that everyone who depended on him felt safe, respected, and valued. Ben's fearlessness, joy for life, and love for the Lord was infectious to anyone that crossed his path. Anyone who knew Ben will remember his ability to connect with every person he met, making them feel like the most important person in the room.

It is safe to say that Ben enjoyed the adrenaline rush of living in the extremes, whether he was riding motorcycles, golfing, scaling a water tower, flying a plane (or jumping out of one), or even scuba diving. It was clear that he lived life to the fullest and encouraged others to do the same. His greatest accomplishments, however, were those of his grandchildren. Nothing could be looked forward to more than time with "Papaw."

He was an extremely proud father to four beautiful daughters, Lacie (Ryan) Pace (Emily, Travis, Allie, and Charlee), Audrie Johnson (Blayse, Brooklyn, Kash, and Willow), Molly Johnson (Maverick), and Emily Johnson (Piper). He always made it a point to give his children countless experiences and lessons that have built them up into exceptional individuals.

Ben is survived by his wife, Sherri Koons (Tomi, Sarah, and Tyler); siblings, Rosanne (Ronnie) Graham and Teresa (Johnny) Dixon; four daughters; their mother, Bonnie Heminger; 19 grandchildren; and three nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dolly and Shark; and sister, Donna McAninch.

His absence leaves an irreplaceable void. His loved ones find solace knowing he is flying high above us like he has so many times before, but now he flies unencumbered and in the arms of the Lord. He lives on in our hearts. Every time the colors in the sky are reminiscent of his welder's caps or when the breeze brings with it the scent of grease, leather, garlic and onions, paint, or a stiff drink, may those that loved him hear the sound of a roaring diesel truck and in his distinct southern draw, hear his voice saying "Later alligator" or "Thank you, thank you very much" ringing in their ears.

Ben's celebration of life will be 2-6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023, at Bettsville American Legion, 323 State St., Bettsville, Ohio. Condolences may be brought to Ben's celebration of life and donations or purchases can be made at losthorizons.com to contribute to "Cracking the Code."

Local arrangements were handled by Harrold-Floriana Funeral Home, Fostoria.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hffh.net.