Harry Johnson

Harry Vernon Johnson, age 87, of Danville, passed away at 6:25 am on Friday, September 14, 2007 at the VA Illiana Health Care System in Danville. He was born September 11, 1920 in Danville, IL the son of John A. and Beda S. (Seren) Johnson. He married Virginia Lanham on April 21, 1946 in Danville. She preceded him in death on September 11, 1992. Harry later married Cecilia Thornsbrough on October 8, 1993 in Danville. She preceded him in death on December 4, 2003. He is survived by two step sons: Mark (Donna) Thornsbrough of Bloomington, IL, Eric Thornsbrough of Tampa, FL; two step daughters: Deborah (Barry) Waitkus of Springfield, IL, Rebecca Meeker of Indian Head Park, IL; five grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; and a nephew: Leonard Johnson. Harry was preceded in death by his parents, both wives, and a brother: Leonard H. Johnson. Harry graduated from Danville High School in 1939. He then enlisted in the United States Army Air Corp and served during World War II. He was stationed in the Philippines as an aircraft mechanic with the 17th Pursuit Squadron Bataan. Harry was a Japanese Prisoner Of War for three and a half years and participated and survived the Bataan death march. After returning from the war, Harry worked for Jewel/Eisner Food Stores for 36 years before his retirement in 1985. He was very active member of the Bethel Lutheran Church of Danville, and also active in the Danville Area Chapter of the Barber Shop Quartet. Harry was a member of the Illiana Ex-POW Chapter of Danville, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars and a life member of Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor. He enjoyed photography, reading and studying the history of World War II. What Harry loved the most was spending time with his family, grandchildren and great grandchildren. A celebration of the Life of Harry Johnson will be held at 11am on Monday, September 17, 2007 at the Bethel Lutheran Church with Ed Stone officiating. Entombment will follow at the mausoleum in Springhill Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 pm on Sunday, September 16, 2007 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Danville. Memorial donations may be made in Harrys name to the Vermilion County War Museum. Email condolences can be sent to Harrys family at: www.sunsetfuneralhome.com