Mr. Gerald "Jerry" Johnson, 71, of Rochester was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away at home on Saturday, February 16 at 12:48 p.m. In Egeland, North Dakota on April 5, 1941, Gerald Leonard "Jerry" Johnson was born. He was the cherished son of Axel and Lilly Haller Johnson. Growing up as the second youngest, he shared his childhood as one of thirteen children. Following high school, patriotism beckoned him. With great pride Jerry joined the Marine Corps and served our country during the Vietnam War, being stationed in Okinawa, Japan. On July 30, 1965 in Rochester, Jerry married his best friend and the love of his life Carolyn Braden. Their union spanned over 47 1/2 years, as they shared life's adventures and raising a son and three daughters. Over the years the added blessings of seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren were added to the family tree. An American sportsman, Jerry enjoyed the sport of fishing. Armed with his favorite casting rod or cane pole, he fished the lakes of Northern Indiana for pan fish, traveled to Wisconsin for Crappie, or Oregon for King Salmon. He hunted deer on their family's Richland Center farm. An adventurer, he joined in on hunting expeditions bagging elk with his brothers in Idaho. As an antique car buff, Jerry was endeared to the restoration of two great cars. His first was a 1956 Ford Fairlane with a rare buckskin and white paint job. With great determination, skill and sweat he returned the car to showroom quality. This sweet chariot became Carolyn's ride when Jerry stumbled onto another challenge even greater. With his work cut out, he rescued a 1957 Chevy two door post turquoise and white. The car was found in a fence row with a tree growing up in the middle. Following a complete overhaul and restoration from engine to interior, this car turned many heads as Jerry competed in International car shows in the United States and Canada. Together Jerry and Carolyn enjoyed the freedom of the road, riding their maroon colored Honda Goldwing, catching the breeze on daytrips around the midwest and venturing to Atlantic City and near Niagara Falls for longer trips. He also enjoyed the game of golf with his family and friends. Jerry's favorite courses were the Elks and Mill Creek at Rochester and Pond View at Winamac. An armchair athlete, he loved cheering for the Colts, I.U. basketball and NASCAR's Bobby Labonte'. Jerry is lovingly remembered by his wife Carolyn, at home; a son Roger Johnson and wife Jennifer, of Rochester; 3 daughters: Robin Boyd and fiancee' Gary Williams, Terri Brooks and husband Bill of Wolcott, Debbie Carman and husband Mike; seven grandchildren: Chad and Missy Conwell, Jason Conwell, Aaron and Mallory Johnson, Adrienne Johnson and Adam Yeager, Liz Williams, Zachary Boyd, Austin Carman; 3 great-grandchildren: Ryan, Levi and Josh; a brother Jim Johnson and wife Winette of Rochester; and his canine companion Pepper, a salt and pepper colored Miniature Schnauzer. Pastor Teri White will officiate services. He will be laid to rest in the family plot at the Richland Center IOOF Cemetery northwest of Rochester. Military graveside rites will be accorded by the Fulton County Military Honor Guard and the United States Marine Corps Honors Team.