Donald T. Johnson

Donald (Don or DJ) graduated from Youngsville High School in 1949 and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corp. After being Honorably Discharged, he went on to earn a teaching degree from the California State Teachers College in California, PA. His teaching career began in the greater Pittsburgh area, later moving back to Warren County to settle in Youngsville, PA. Don taught Industrial Arts at Youngsville High School for 35 years, retiring in 1990. He loved working with his students, and many admire him for their education. During his time as a teacher, he earned a master’s degree through additional classes at Penn State University and Eastern Tennessee State University.

He met the love of his life, Wilma Jean Gumbert of Charleroi, PA while attending college. They married in Lover, PA on June 22, 1957.

More than anything, Don was a devout Christian and family man. He loved his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren unconditionally. He loved to attend all their activities, especially Scouting and sporting events. To family and friends, Don was known for being a punster and for quick-witted comebacks that would lighten the day. His greatest joy was helping others, be it family, friends or complete strangers through volunteering time, resources or simply a kind gesture. He was humble, never seeking recognition for accomplishments and contributions to the community. His hobbies included camping, hiking and property maintenance.

Don, along with his twin, David W. Johnson, were the first two Eagle Scouts for Irvine Troop 22, at the age of 15 and shared the honor of being the first twins in Chief Cornplanter Council to receive the Eagle rank. He was an active member of Scouting and the Chief Cornplanter Council for 81 years. He obtained many awards, including the Silver Beaver Award, James E. West Fellowship and served on many committees, including Round Table, Conclave and Camp Inspection Committee. He was a Wood Badge recipient, served at Camp Olmsted every summer for several weeks and Beaver Days, served as Scout Master and the Assistant Scout Master of Irvine Troop 22 for many years. He was also very active in the Order of the Arrow, Gyantwachia Lodge. He mentored numerous Scouts over the years and spent a great deal of time on his Scouting adventures both locally and nationally.

He was a 72-year member of the Masonic Stillwater Lodge #547 and received his Daniel E. Beard Award for his years of service and the connection between Masons and Scouting. Don also received a Youngsville Community Service Award. He went on to serve the community for many years after retirement by serving with Meals on Wheels.

He was a long-time, active member of the Irvine Presbyterian Church, having grown up in Irvine and served as an elder. His other interests were American History, especially the Civil War and World War 2.

Don is survived by his loving wife, Wilma Jean and two children, Clinton Johnson (Debbie Jarosz) of Hamburg, NY and Mary (Richard) DeSimone of Youngsville, PA. He had a special place in his heart for his grandchildren, Kelsey Johnson (Brandon Wroblewski) of Eden, NY, Kevin Johnson (Amra Methgen) of Garberville, CA, Jacob and Matthew DeSimone, of Youngsville and two great-grandchildren, Barrett and Bowen Wroblewski. Don is also survived by his sister, A. Louise Hooven, of Corry, PA and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by an infant brother, Clinton Donovan Johnson, twin brother, David (Nancy) Johnson, brother, Carl (Sonna) Johnson, in-laws, Wayne (Patricia) Gumbert and his brother-in-law, Norris Hooven. He was also preceded in death by his grandson, Nathan Thomas Johnson.

Friends and family will be received on Sunday, June 9, 2024, from 2-5 pm at the Irvine Presbyterian Church, 885 National Forge Road, Irvine, PA 16329. Troop #22 and the Chief Cornplanter Council Boy Scout Vespers will provide a small service starting at 4:30, followed by a Masonic Ritual provided by the Stillwater Lodge #547. A funeral service will be held there on Monday, June 10 at 11 am, with Pastor Dennis Ledebur, officiating. The Youngsville American Legion #658 will provide full military honors. Burial will be in Stilson Hill Cemetery followed by a luncheon at the Irvine Presbyterian Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Don’s name to the Irvine Presbyterian Church or to the Chief Cornplanter Council at cornplanterbsa.org.

Nelson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, in Youngsville, have been entrusted with all arrangements. Condolences to the family may be made at nelsonfuneralhome.net.