Melvin Johnson (86) was born February15th, 1935 in Des Moines Iowa and except for a stint in the US Army - lived here his entire life. He joined his beloved dancing partner Marilyn on September 30th, 2021. He has been cared for at Ramsey Village Continuing Care for the past year by many loving and kind caregivers and we would like to acknowledge and thank the entire staff.

He graduated from DM Tech in 1953. After his time in the Army he met, then married Marilyn Sparks of Farrar IA, in January of 1957. Legend has it that he learned how to bowl just so he could meet her. They remained happily married until her passing in July of 1995. Together they enjoyed many years of various interests...bowling, dancing, camping, fishing, card playing, and charity work with the Elks and Does.

After getting married he joined the City of Des Moines Fire Department where he achieved the rank of Captain and retired in 1989. He was a well respected member of the Baldwin Patterson American Legion Post and The Elks Lodge #98 where he joined his fellow Elks in serving the Veterans Home in Marshalltown.

He will be missed by many especially by those closest to him. His brother - Bill (Mary) Johnson of Raynham, MA. Children - Rhonda Wells of Des Moines, IA, Richard (Kym) Johnson of Olathe, KS and Robin (Bruce) Franksain of Ankeny, IA. Grandchildren, Jason, Crystal, Justine and Jillian. Longtime companion Clara Sparks and her family.

Waiting to welcome him are his wife Marilyn and infant son Harry, his parents, Harry and Ruth Johnson, brothers Kenny and Bob and many other family and friends that have gone ahead of him. He touched many with his kindness and sense of humor. He lived his life with grace and humility.

We will be celebrating his life at a future date. Mel donated to many charitable organizations and if you should choose to donate, please consider The Alzheimer's Association, The Elks Lodge, the American Legion or any Veteran's Organization.