Carl LeRoy Johnson, Sr.

Carl LeRoy Johnson, Sr., 88, of Leesburg, Florida passed away Saturday, March 14, 2026 at UF Leesburg Hospital. Cremation rites have been accorded, and a Celebration of Life will be held from 12-3 p.m. on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at the Geneseo Community Center 541 E. North St. in Geneseo, IL. Mr. Johnson was born March 10,1938 in Prophetstown, Illinois to Bertha Huizenga Johnson and Harry Cherry. Carl's first marriage was to Rita Coziahr on March 28, 1959. Their union resulted in the birth of three children: Carl Jr., Cynthia, and Curtis. They divorced in 1973, Rita preceded Carl in death on May 22,2019. Carl Johnson married Jacqueline Cruikshank in Geneseo, IL. on May 4,1974. They lived in several places in Iowa, Illinois and California during their years together. They were married 20 years until Jackie passed away unexpectedly January 9,1994. Carl enjoyed several years with his companion Carol Burkhardt. They traveled and shared hobbies and crafts together until Carol passed away due to illness on February 21,2003. On August 9,2003 Carl married Diane Brown in Galena, IL. After selling their home in Galesburg, Illinois they enjoyed their retirement years traveling in their RV. They finally settled in a retirement village, Holiday RV Park, in Leesburg, Florida. They enjoyed many of the activities at the park such as bingo and dances. Carl kept busy in his retirement years doing landscaping and lawn care for his many neighbors in in the park. He was a trusted member of the community that took pride in showing properties for sale and keeping an eye on his friends homes. Diane preceded Carl in death last year on March 10, 2025 after 22 years together. Mr. Johnson served in the United States Army then worked for Franks Foundry in Moline, Illinois. Carl was a volunteer for the Geneseo Emergency Unit-Civil Defense for several years. He worked at Case in Bettendorf, Iowa until they closed and he then went on to become head grounds keeper for Short Hills Country Club in East Moline, II. until his retirement. Those left to cherish his memory are one brother, Richard Johnson of Davenport, Iowa. His three children: Carl Jr. (Brenda) Johnson, Cindy (Gary) Wilkinson, Curt (Chrissy Willis) Johnson He is survived by six grandchildren: Jerimiah Johnson, Misha (Allen) Hermes, Emil Thomas, Jesse (Lindsay) Johnson, Tyler Johnson, Perry (Kristen) Johnson, and four great grandchildren.

Carl LeRoy Johnson, Sr.

March 10, 1938 - March 14, 2026