Keith H Johnson

Keith Harris Johnson, 62, Bismarck, beloved husband and father, passed away in his home on January 6, 2014. Services will be held at 1:00 pm Friday, January 10, at Eastgate Funeral Service, Bismarck. Cremation has taken place; the family would like to invite family and friends to share stories and hugs with them on Thursday evening, January 9, from 6:00pm – 10:00 pm at 1322 N 17th Street. Keith was born on September 18, 1951, in Dickinson, the son of Karleton R. and Dolores Cumber Johnson. He was the pride and joy of his grandparents, Jack and Lela Cumber. He lived in Glendive, MT, before moving to Bismarck and attending Pioneer and Richolt grade schools. Keith attended Simle Junior High, when they were known as the "Hillbillies", before becoming the Simle Spartans. He was active in football, basketball, boy scouts, track, and baseball. As a young man, he and his best friend, Robert Nordstrom, often cut lawn for Harold Schafer. He also helped carry cables for his father during KFYR-TV events in the early 60s. One of his first jobs was making sunflower and pumpkin seeds for Will's. He played football and basketball for BHS until he was hurt in his senior year. He graduated from Bismarck High School in 1969, the last class to have their ceremony in the Memorial Building. Keith met his wife of 42 years, Gloria Goehner at Joe's Bowling Center. They were married on December 10, 1971, and had two wonderful children, Tommy and Joy. Keith loved slow pitch softball and played all over North Dakota. He will be remembered as a power hitter, lifting his left leg and sending the ball soaring for many home runs. He played in 34 state tournaments and three regional tournaments. Keith bowled during the winter months and enjoyed attending local football, basketball, track, and wrestling events. He cheered his own children on in softball, basketball and track events. He loved planning trips around a Twins or Vikings game. Keith was a true Vikings and Twins fan, wearing their colors proudly no matter what the season records were. Due to a massive heart attack in 1998, he could no longer participate in any sports. His angel that kept him going for the next 15 years was born on January 28, 1999, his grandson, Cody Johnson. Three weeks later he was able to have quadruple by-pass surgery. He did his "baby" rehab with Cody on the living room floor. Keith worked for Kundert's Janitorial in his early years, moving on to Northwest Pipe Fittings. He then spent 16 years at Dakota Candy and Tobacco now Amcon. Before his heart attack he was employed at Metz Baking. His heart attack rendered him medically disabled, but he was a cheerleader and inspiration for his family and friends. He lost his kidneys on Christmas three years ago, and never missed a dialysis session. Keith was able to fly to Dallas, TX, with his family in November to visit family. He would light up like a Christmas tree whenever anyone asked him about it. Keith is survived by his wife, Gloria; son, Tommy; daughter, Joy; and grandson, Cody Johnson, all of Bismarck; his mother, Dolores "Dolly" Johnson, Dallas, TX; sister, Karla Mark Unkenholz, Dallas, TX; sister, Sheri Johnson, OH; and his nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Karleton; his brother, Scott; and his paternal and maternal grandparents.

Keith H Johnson

September 18, 1951 - January 6, 2014