James N. Johnson, 74, Columbia City, died Friday, Oct. 14, 2016 at Ashton Creek Nursing Center, Fort Wayne where he was admitted on Oct. 1.

He was born Aug. 19, 1942 in Marion, a son of Dale N. and Katherine B. (Moore) Johnson. His formative years were spent in Columbia City. He graduated from Columbia City Joint High School in 1960.

After graduation, he began working for International Harvester, retiring in June 1992 from Navistar.

On Oct. 2, 1965 he was united in marriage to Cheryl J. “Cheri” Nadolny. They made their home in Columbia City. Mrs. Johnson died Oct. 31, 1972. In the mid 1970s, Jim moved to Fort Wayne and then transferred to Springfield, Ohio, returning to Fort Wayne after retirement.

He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, American Legion, Eagles and UAW where he served as secretary/treasurer.

Surviving relatives include three daughters: Gina M. Jahn of Angola; Niki Johnson of Casa Grande, Ariz.; and Jennifer Goeglein of Fort Wayne; six grandchildren: Thea, Ashliee, Brenden, Kylie, Ellie and Addie; two great grandchildren: Brooklynn and Kaydence; a brother, Max (Sharon) Johnson of Fort Wayne; and three sisters: Bev (Joe) Williams of St. Petersburg Fla.; Mary (Nick) McManama of Columbia City; and Kathy (Rick Seitz) Keel of Fort Wayne.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Steven Johnson.

The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 20, at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. The burial will be in Nolt Cemetery. The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 19 at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials are to Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home.