Obituary

Burton Johnson

Burton Wesley Johnson of Bellingham went home to be with the Lord, Jesus Christ, on April 25, 2013 at the Orchard Park Assisted Living Retirement Community.

Burton was born April 15, 1924 to Lester and Madge Johnson. Burton was one of 8 children who grew up in the local community of Whatcom County. It was here where he learned the values of love, faith, family, and hard work.

He is preceded by his siblings, Dayton Johnson, Lester Johnson, Judy Honey (Johnson), and Marge Phillpot (Johnson). He is survived by his remaining siblings Arly Holliday (Johnson), Veronica Dodge (Johnson), and Doug Johnson.

In 1942 he enlisted as a merchant marine to transport troops and deliver ammunition to U.S. soldiers in WWII. His favorite mission was picking up soldiers in Alaska and sailing them straight to Hawaii. During his enlistment, Burton came home for a brief period to marry his school sweetheart, Esther Violet Johnson in 1944.

Later, in 1946, he was discharged from the military, and pursued a career as a chemist at the cement plant in Bellingham, Washington. It wasnt until the day before his 24th birthday in 1948, when he was blessed with his only child, Cheryl Berwick (Johnson). Burton and Esther raised their daughter on the banks of Lake Whatcom and hosted many gatherings where friends and family were always welcome. It was because of his hospitality, kindness, and love that countless fond memories were created for many. In 1970 he gave his daughter to marry Jacob Berwick.

He was soon thereafter blessed with three grandchildren: Kim Berwick, Karie Vandenhaak (Berwick), and Kevin Berwick. Burton loved the Lord, Jesus Christ, and was very active in church. He taught Sunday school alongside his wife, and spent countless hours studying his Bible to prepare lessons for the children. Although he still kept his Bible close by, he retired from teaching and as a chemist to pursue other dreams.

Burton and Esther began traveling to California in the winters. However, they were not gone for long periods of time. They would venture back north to see what mattered most to them, their family. During this time, Burton was also blessed with 5 great grandchildren.

After several years of winters in California, Burton remained at home to take care of his wife who suffered from Alzheimers. Through her long battle, he cared for her diligently every day. He never stopped until the Lord took her home on February 21, 2012. He spent his remaining days with family and numerous friends.

Farewell Tribute Information

A funeral and graveside service will be held for Burton on Friday May 10, 2013 at 1:00 pm at Moles Farewell Tributes Greenacres, 5700 Northwest Dr. Ferndale.