In Memory

Harry Johnson

Harry Johnson

Harry David Johnson  1944 --- July 9, 2021

Harry David Johnson was born November 10, 1944 in Kansas City, MO to Robert Harvey and Vera Vernell (Tillman) Johnson.   

His life long interest in music began in the fifth grade when he started playing trumpet.  He studied trumpet through high school and college.  During high school he balanced a part time job, participation in band and orchestra plus earned the highest rank of the Boy Scouts, an Eagle Scout.

He was drafted in 1967 by the Army and was trained as a radio operator.  

Typically choosing a career in broadcasting means entering a tough job market with an entry-level position in a small town.  Harry's start began at KFEQ radio in St. Joseph MO.  With each job change he went to a larger market.  His voice was perfectly suited for an easy listening format.  Willing to make the changes was Harry's high school sweetheart Shirley Albertson.  The moves included Milwaukee, Atlanta, Seattle and finally Los Angeles.  

In Los Angeles Harry was on-the-air mid day, first at KOST and later KBIG.  If you worked in an office or shopped on your lunch hour, you may have probably heard him.   

Harry was able to share his broadcast knowledge with Santa Monica College students.  He enjoyed teaching there for 20 years as a member of the Speech and Broadcasting department.  

Of all the people he touched, his most proud achievement were his children.  Harry is survived by his son Rob Johnson married to Lillian and their children Shirley, James, Vincent, William and Harry.  His daughter is Christi Johnson Epps married to Greg Epps and their children Cooper, Chris and Leanna.  


At 6'3", Harry will remain in our hearts and minds bigger than life! We feel blessed to call him husband, father, Papa Harry, uncle, and dear friend; his passing will leave a large void in our lives.



 
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07/26/21 08:56 AM #1    

Jim Andrews

Harry was part of the band trumpet trio in high school. It consisted of Larry Denning, Jim Andrews, and Harry Johnson. The band would travel to other schools and play. The three of us would perform  a song  in front of the students. I forget the name of the song but still remember the tune. I remember Harry was a kind even tempered really nice person. I had no idea he married Shirley who lived about three houses down our street when we were growing up. Sound like he lived a full life with a loving family. What more can one ask for? Jim Andrews  


07/26/21 10:26 AM #2    

Jim Shelton (Shelton)

Sorry to hear of Harry's passing this last July 2021.  I only had a few classes with Harry, but remember him as a mild mannered intelligent great guy.  I had the privilege of last seeing him at our 20th reunion and we discussed his success as a broadcast announcer in L.A.   My condolences go out to friends and family....for he will  definitely be missed.   God Bless  


07/26/21 01:45 PM #3    

Elmer McCall

I did not know Harry beyond a recognizable face, but wish I had.   Looks like he had a good run and great fortune in pursuit of his dreams .


07/28/21 10:17 AM #4    

Wayne Hauschild

I  had no classes with Harry and didn't know him that well but when I did have contact with him he was always very pleasent and upbeat, very enjoyable to be around.  The world needs more people like him.  RIP, Harry.

 


08/02/21 09:09 AM #5    

Larry Denning

Harry was a great guy to be around. We had a lot of fun playing trumpets along with Jim Andrews. Also, Harry and I would occasionally get a few hours off school to play "taps" at VFW funerals and such. We also played together in the school dance band. I think I saw him last at our 20th renunion. Harry will really be missed.


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