Merlynn Johnson

July 16, 1943 - October 3, 2021

Visitation: Visitation, with family present, will be Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. at Anderson Funeral Home in Canton, SD.

Service: Funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, October 7 at Canton Lutheran Church

Merlynn Johnson, age 78, died Sunday, October 3, 2021 at his home surrounded by his family.  Funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, October 7 at Canton Lutheran Church.  Visitation, with family present, will be Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. at Anderson Funeral Home in Canton, SD.

        Merlynn was born on July 16, 1943 in Hurley, SD to Odell and Bernice (Groon) Johnson.  He graduated from Hurley High School in 1961.  He married Gloria Jacaway on December 5, 1986 in Parker, SD.

        Merlynn enjoyed the open road and spent many years trucking and exploring the country on his motorcycle.  He also owned Soderstrom Machine and Johnson Construction in Canton.  He retired from Windwalker Transportation in 2018.

        Merlynn was a man of his word who treasured spending time with his family.  He was very proud of his children and grandchildren.  He was a perfectionist who enjoyed working in his shop and took pride in his work.  He was also a Shriner and liked walking his dog, Toby.

        Merlynn is survived by his wife of 34 years, Gloria; sons, Todd Johnson and Dan (Christine) Johnson; daughters, Sherry Naranjo, Melissa (Steve) Klingbile, and Robin Salen; 15 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; sister, Mardell Ebsen; dog, Toby; and many extended relatives and friends.    He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Corina Mullinix.

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9 messages have been left

  1. Myrna Keppen on October 4, 2021 said:

    So very sorry for your loss!! Thoughts & prayers for everyone.

    Myrna Keppen

  2. Tracey H on October 5, 2021 said:

    I am so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you.

    Tracey H

  3. Connie Jacobs on October 5, 2021 said:

    “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
    ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭34:18‬ ‭NIV‬‬
    “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
    ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:6-7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

  4. Gale Nelson on October 5, 2021 said:

    so sorry for your loss merlynn was a good man i spent lots of days having coffee with him back in the days working for Johnson feed he loved his coffee i regret not being able to keep in touch with him you will be missed thoughts and prayers for the family

  5. Verlyss V Jacobson on October 6, 2021 said:

    Merlynn’s family: the Johnsons and the Jacobsons moved to Hurley in March 1951. The two families became fast friends and spent many a cold winter nights visiting at one of their homes or at Schroedermeiers. Mom and we girls [Verlyss, Vyona, Vynita] visited Bernie and Odell in Canton many times. It has been years/decades since I saw Merlynn. Sorry for your loss.

  6. Tami Rikansrud on October 7, 2021 said:

    Johnson family, I’m sorry for your loss.

  7. Janel (Short) Kaltenbach on October 7, 2021 said:

    To the family of Merlynn;
    I am so sorry for your loss. I have so many memories of Merlynn from when I was younger. Going to the shop with my dad, or all the other activities they use to do. He will be missed for sure. You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this time.

    Todd, I am so sorry that I wasn’t aware of this when I seen you the other night.

  8. Sandi and Jake on October 9, 2021 said:

    Gloria and family—-
    Our thoughts and love are with you all… we know how difficult it is to loose a loved one. Wish there was some magical words we could tell you that would ease the sorrow… passing time will help. Until then know we love you and are sending you our condolences and best wishes.
    Sandi and Jake Jacaway

  9. Lynda Johnson on October 10, 2021 said:

    We are so very sorry to hear of his passing our thoughts and prayers are with all of you

    Charlie and Lynda Johnson