Walter Allen Johnson, Sr.

Walter Allen Johnson, Sr. died unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 5, 2016 at Summit Healthcare Regional Medical Center in Show Low, Arizona following a sudden illness.  He was 71 years old.  Walter was born on a Sunday, September 24, 1944 in Parker, Arizona to his parents, the late Ellison Carroll and Frances (Analla) Johnson.Born and reared in Parker, Walter was a member of Parker High School's Class of 1962.  At a young age, Walter knew the value of having a good education, and moved to Tucson to attend the University of Arizona, where he received his Bachelor's degree in Elementary and Secondary Education.  Later, he went on to receive two Master's degrees; one in Special Education and the other in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, during which time, he never lost his Wildcat spirit!  His education served him well throughout his life.  He was an influential man in the lives of thousands of young people over the years.  For 42 years, Walter was a favorite teacher at Gila Vista Jr. High School in Yuma's School District 1.  He also spent time as a wrestling and baseball coach for the high school there.  In his community, he was a great coach for the Little League and the Babe Ruth League, inspiring the little ballplayers to be the best young men they could be.On March 8, 1978, Walter married his forever sweetheart, Karen Anne Kottenbrook on the beaches of the Colorado River in Parker, Arizona.  Theirs was a marriage full of life, laughter and love.  They most recently celebrated their 38th wedding anniversary. When Walter wasn't teaching or coaching, he found his way around the golf links.  He was an avid golfer and participated in countless tournaments.  He also loved relaxing on the banks of a lazy river or the shores of a beautiful lake.  His favorite fishing hole was any fishing hole.This gentleman of a man will be missed by many, however none will miss him more than those within his own family.  Walter Allen Johnson, Sr. is survived by his wife, Karen A. Johnson of both Yuma and Show Low, Arizona; 5 children:  Kelly Chavez of Juno, Alaska, Kari Penny of Yuma, Arizona, Walter, Jr. (Laura) Johnson of Temecula, California, Carol (Jack) Smith of Yuma, Arizona, Nick Johnson of Yuma, Arizona; 10 grandchildren:  Drew Chavez, Alec Chavez, Sidney Penny, Jack Penny, Gwyneth Penny, Grace Penny, Colette Johnson, Davey Smith, Winnie Smith, Ava Smith with an 11th (a boy) on the way!Walter's family is thankful for the many expressions of sympathy they have received during this difficult season and are especially grateful for all of the prayers offered up on their behalf.