August 2, 1946 – July 16, 2025

Johnny was born on August 2, 1946, in Hanford, Calif. He left us on July 16, 2025. We know he is reunited with his family members and enjoying their presence, as well as all of his fur babies that went before him.

Johnny’s mother, Nadine and father, Harry were married and his sister, Gail, came along shortly after him. Eventually Nadine and Harry divorced and Nadine married Merle Kelsheimer, their union produced Johnny’s brother, Randy and his sister, Leslie. Merle Kelsheimer was a proud member of the USAF and the family spent many years living on base while Merle served his country.

Johnny joined the United States Navy, and married his wife Charlene in 1968. He completed his obligation to the military and in 1971 they started their family. Johnny remained a proud veteran throughout his life and kept in touch with friends that had served along side him in Vietnam aboard the USS Enterprise.

In 1981 Johnny and Charlene left California and settled in Elko, Nev. They spent many years, from 1981 to 2006 in the area and established lifelong friendships. In 2006 they were ready for a change and settled in Vian, Okla. Johnny never met a slab of meat he didn’t want to throw on the grill and cook excruciatingly slowly. The more the merrier. He absolutely thrived having friends and family to entertain, especially from his porch and deck, which he considered to be the absolutely most beautiful place in the world.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests making a donation to your local VFW hall or Animal Shelter in his honor.

Johnny is survived by his wife, Charlene Johnson of Vian; daughter, Kimberly Marshall of Elko; son, Heath Johnson of Vian; granddaughter, Raven Latham of Elko; grandson, Cooper Marshall of Elko; and great-grandson, Kaius Ramirez of Elko.

Johnny is preceded in death by his parents, Harry Johnson and Nadine Kelsheimer; brother, Randy Kelsheimer; sister, Leslie Shores; stepfather, Merle Kelsheimer; and sister, Gail Brown.