Merle Johnson, 71, of Lexington, departed this world on May 5, 2010, south of Lexington as the result of a truck accident.

He was born Jan. 24, 1939, at Farnam, to Irvin and Velma (Hand) Johnson. Merle grew up in Farnam and graduated from Farnam High School in 1957, where he was involved in football and basketball.

Merle was united in marriage to Judith Ann Hudson on Jan. 25, 1958, at Lexington. Four children were blessed to this marriage; Deb, Pam, Mark and Rick. He married Sharyn (Dunbar) Dangler on Nov. 21, 1998, at Lexington.

Merle moved to Lexington in the early 1960s and started working at Dawson Public Power District in October of 1961. He also farmed during these years and spent nearly 40 years at Dawson before retiring in January of 2001. Following his retirement, boredom set in and he returned to work driving truck for Paulsen's.

He was a member of the First United Methodist Church, the Eagles Club and a past member of the PlumCreekers. He enjoyed yard work, going out to eat, taking long drives and being with his beloved dog, Buddy. He had a great sense of humor and always enjoyed a great joke. Merle will be missed by his family and friends.

Survivors include his wife Sharyn Johnson, of Lexington; sons, Mark (Virginia) Johnson, of Kearney, Rick (Darcie) Johnson, of Culbertson; daughters, Deb (Vonn) Roberts, of Lincoln, Pam (Fred) Maloley, of Lexington; stepsons, Troy (Laura) Dangler of Yuma, Colo.; Chad Dangler; one brother, Charles W. (Aileen) Johnson, of Kearney; three sisters, RoJean Gutherless, of North Platte, Roberta Seals, of Arkansas, Jeanette (Jerry) Evans, of Minatare; one aunt, Donna (Ray) Swanson of North Platte; 18 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Merle was preceded in death by his parents and "Buddy."

Services will be Saturday, May 8, at 10:30 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Lexington with Reverend Todd Karges officiating. Burial will be at the Evergreen Cemetery at Lexington. The casket will be closed and there will be no visitation. Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation.

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Direct expressions of sympathy and condolence to the family at reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.

North Platte Telegraph, 7 May 2010.