Mervin Ted Johnson

Princeton - Mervin "Ted" Johnson, 88, was born on February 15, 1937, he passed peacefully in his home, Saturday, August 9, 2025. Ted was the son of Mervin and Elinor (Hays) Johnson. Born, raised and a lifelong resident of Princeton. Ted graduated from Princeton High School in 1955, then he attended Northern Illinois University. He Married Dorothy Harmon on May 8, 1966 and together they raised three children. The children were the loves of their life and raised accordingly. Ted worked a variety of jobs. He worked at the gas stations with his father, the newspaper, Larson Furniture, and then he and Dorothy opened their own business, Johnson Carpet Shoppe. Ted was an active community participant and served in many different capacities during his lifetime, including Boy Scouts, Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, Jaycees, Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, Elementary School Board, Masonic Lodge, City Planning and Zoning Board, Park District Board, First united Methodist Church, Elks Club, Princeton Township Clerk, Retail Merchants Association and many city wide promotions highlighting what Princeton had to offer. In his retirement, after his grandchildren were born, he built a barrel train which was enjoyed by them and their friends. Barrels of Fun accommodated 23 passengers and faithfully made the summer parade circuit and different special events for many years. Ted became an avid greeting card sender. He tried to time the mailings of cards to reach the recipient in time for their special occasion. He also found great joy in receiving cards. Ted is survived by three children; Jeffrey (Amy) Johnson of Dallas, TX, Kevin (Carmen) Johnson of Ramona, CA and Christie (Jeffery) Lucas of Princeton, IL. Ted leaves behind five grandchildren; Riley, Maddie, Matt, Dylan and Maya; one brother Phil (Jane) Johnson; one great cousin Sherri (Bob) Mancusi and two nieces Sarah and Hilary. Preceded in death by his parents, brother Dennis, uncle Dick and Aunt Daisy Gottlieb, cousin Kathryn Hays and grandson Finn Johnson. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family for charitable distribution. Ted Johnson lived a good life, was up for any type of shenanigans and made even the most mundane things more fun. His family was his pride and joy and he adored his grandchildren more than anything. Cremation rites accorded. Services to be held at a later date and time. Online condolences www.norberfh.com Arrangements by Norberg Memorial Home. Inc & Monuments.

Mervin Ted Johnson

February 15, 1937 - August 9, 2025