Robert E. Johnson

Robert E. 'Bob' Johnson, 98, of Ephrata, PA, formerly of Dagsboro, DE, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 9, 2023. Born in Berwick, PA, he was a son of the late James Russel and Helen (Blank) Johnson and the loving husband to the late Barbara A. (Howe) Johnson for 50 years.

Bob was a graduate of Ephrata High School, class of 1943. He went on to attend Franklin and Marshall College before courageously enlisting in the US Navy during World War II. He was modestly proud of serving his country, a quiet sense of pride that his family valued deeply. Bob dedicated 40 years of his life as a Production Foreman for RCA, where he made significant contributions and eventually retired. In his spare time, he found solace in his passion for hunting and spent 30 years enjoying his cabin in Sullivan County. Following his retirement, Bob moved to Delaware, where he discovered a love for fishing. Bob was an avid Penn State fan and was devoted to following the Nittany Lions. He held season tickets and eagerly anticipated the bowl games each year. He was also a member of the Ephrata VFW, Post 3376, a group of friends where he had a sense of belonging. Bob will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his country, and his passions. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and resilience.

Bob is survived by his five children, Susan L. Mentzer (Richard Chelakis) of Boynton Beach, FL, Nancy A. Lesher (Steven) of Lititz, Barbara L. Whallon (Geoffrey) of Leola, Robert E. Johnson II (Janet) of Lititz, and stepson, Geoffrey P. Lorah, Virginia Beach; 13 grandchildren; and 18 great grandchildren. In addition to his wife, Barbara, Bob was predeceased by his brother, Donald F. Johnson.

A visitation will be held on Sat., Dec. 2nd from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at Gravenor Sipler Funeral & Cremation Centre, Inc., 100 W. Main St., Ephrata and in celebration of Bob’s life, a Time of Sharing will begin at 4:30 p.m. Bob’s final resting place is Cedar Hill Cemetery, Ephrata.

In lieu of flowers, contributions are appreciated to Hospice & Community Care, www.hospiceandcommunitycare.org/in-honor-in-memory-gifts