golden cholla--29 Palms

(February, 2009)

I took this photo on an early morning walk in 29 Palms near the Indian Cove area of Joshua Tree National Park. Easy to see why the cactus is called golden.

Darold's memorial service in 29 Palms--February 28, 2009

(portrait of Darold Johnson by his grand-daughter, Dana Armstrong, of Chicago)

My father-in-law, Darold Johnson's memorial service at Immanuel Prince of Peace Lutheran church in 29 Palms was beautiful and memorable. Darold served our country for 44 years--20 years in the Navy and 24 years in civil service, 17 of those at the Marine base in 29 Palms where he taught electronics.

A Navy color guard escort was part of the memorial service. A bugler played taps. Two soldiers unfurled and refolded the American flag. One of them presented the flag to my mother-in-law, Helen, and said, "Thank you for your husband's service on behalf of a grateful nation and the President of the United States." Tears of pride and joy followed. We gave Darold a fantastic send-off!

Darold Johnson--36 years in 29 Palms

I can't say enough about my father-in-law Darold, whom we lost on February 20th. He was a fantastic husband, father, brother, uncle, grandpa, great-grandpa, great-great grandpa, a servant and a leader. We love you, Darold, and we miss you!

Celebrating the life of Darold Johnson

(Christmas at the Johnson's, 29 Palms)

(Darold's 1930 Model A, Pioneer Days parade, 29 Palms, October 2007)

My father-in-law Darold Johnson passed away February 20, 2009. He lived in 29 Palms for 36 years and leaves a great legacy to all of us who knew and loved him.