Calvin Leroy Johnson

9/21/1941 — 4/21/2026

• Service Date: 6/1/2026

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Calvin Leroy Johnson, age 85, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on Sept. 21, 1940, and lived a life defined by hard work, storytelling, music and deep love for animals and people.

Calvin was first married to Shirley Ann Todd in 1963. Together they welcomed two sons, Scott and Derek, before later divorcing in 1981. In the spring of 1982, Calvin married Linda Vogel, who brought into his life her daughter Vivian, whom he embraced as his own. Family was always a big part of his world. Linda preceded him in death in 2011.

Calvin dedicated 30 years of service to Washington State University, retiring in 2006. Even in retirement, his days were never slow. Whether farming, ranching, or caring for animals, Calvin found joy in honest labor and life outdoors. Horses, cattle and his beloved cats held a special place in his heart.

An avid hunter and lifelong cowboy at heart, Calvin was deeply passionate about cowboy poetry, reciting it from memory, listening to it and helping organize events that brought the cowboy community together. He also loved dancing and singing, often entertaining family and friends with songs and stories.

A true student of local history, Calvin had a remarkable knowledge of the people, places and stories of earlier times. He loved sharing what he knew about forgotten eras, old homesteads and the way life used to be, keeping history alive through conversation and storytelling.

Calvin never met a stranger. He loved to visit, talk and tell stories, often the same ones many times over — and somehow made each telling feel just as important as the first. Above all, he cherished time spent with family, whether working side by side or sharing a laugh around the table.

Calvin is survived by his children: Scott (Jennifer) Johnson, Derek (Lisa) Johnson and Vivian (Matt) Ivins. He leaves behind grandchildren: Taya (Kolby) Moser, Jaycee Johnson, Kayla Hendren, Clayton (Cortney) Childers and Sierra (Danny) Centenari, along with eight great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.

In his later years, Calvin shared a meaningful companionship with Kathy Clemm, whose friendship and care brought him great comfort and happiness.

Calvin will be remembered for his generous spirit, his love of the land and animals, his music and poetry, and the stories that will continue to be told by those who loved him.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, June 1, at the Troy Lions Hall. This gathering will be a time to reflect, share memories and celebrate a life well lived in the company of family, friends and community. Lunch will be provided and all who wish to remember and honor Calvin are warmly welcome.

Service Information

Date & Time

Monday, June 1, 11:00 AM

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