In Loving Memory of Colonel David F. Johnson

March 21, 1941 ~ October 6, 2023

  It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a true hero, Colonel David F. Johnson, on October 6, 2023, at the age of 82. A loving father, a servant leader, and a decorated pilot, David left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know him.

  Born on March 21, 1941, in Baldwinsville, New York, David was a man of Catholic faith, courage, and grace, and he was dedicated to his family. He raised three children with his loving wife, Nancy, of sixty years. While they lived in many countries and states, Fort Worth, Texas was their home.

  His valor was evident when he served as a pilot in the Vietnam War, where he not only fought for his country but also forged bonds of brotherhood that lasted a lifetime. As a distinguished pilot, he flew 125 combat missions and was awarded the Legion of Merit Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with 3 bronze oak leaf clusters (4 awards), Air Medal with 4 bronze oak leaf clusters (5 awards), Air Force Commendation Medal, and Presidential Unit Citation Ribbon. He always humbly attributed his achievements to the collective efforts of his crew staff.

  After serving in the military, David continued to lead a life defined by service and integrity. He was a Financial Planner, and he was also the CFO for his son’s company.

  As a father, David was our anchor and our guidepost. His love was unwavering, his wisdom immeasurable, and his sacrifices countless. He taught us the values of honesty, hard work, and kindness, always leading by example and ensuring we knew we were loved unconditionally.

  In his leisure time, David enjoyed golfing, boxing, and attending his grandchildren’s events, always cherishing the simple joys of life and valuing the moments spent with family and friends. His laughter, stories, and gentle spirit will be sorely missed but forever cherished in our hearts.

  David is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Johnson; adoring children, Peggy Pruitt and her husband, Mark; Tracy Gonzalez and her husband, Ruben; and Christopher Johnson and his wife, Christi; grandchildren, Megan Quirk and her husband, Brad; David Gonzalez and his wife, Laikyn; Tommy Gonzalez, Michael Gonzalez, John Gonzalez, Charlie Johnson, and Abby Johnson; great-grandchildren, Robert Quirk and TJ Quirk; brother-in-law, Al Johnson Sr.; brother, Dick Johnson and his wife, Jeanne; and sister, Carol Weiman, and her husband, Ed. David was preceded in death by his parents, Maurice and Calfernia Johnson, and his sister, Kay Johnson.

  A memorial service to celebrate the remarkable life of David will be held on Monday, October 16, 2023, at Saint Andrew Catholic Church, with a Rosary at 10:30 a.m. and the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Burial to follow with full military honors at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery at 2:00 p.m.

  May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy of love, family, faith, and service continue to illuminate our paths.