Johnson, Kenneth L. – 1936-2020

FOSTER, JOHNSON, PHELPS

Posted By: Diana Wagner
Date: 7/13/2021 at 21:35:40

Kenneth L. Johnson, 83, of Altoona, formerly of Newton, died Wednesday, July 8, 2020, at MercyOne hospice after a brief illness. He was born on Nov. 8, 1936, in Des Moines to Harry and Ruth (Walton) Johnson.
Ken graduated from Des Moines Technical High School in 1955 where he was a state champion wrestler. He then joined the U.S. Army and served in Germany until 1958. After graduating from Drake University in 1962 and becoming a CPA, he was employed in Chicago with the firm of Haskins and Sells until 1968 when he returned to Iowa and became a partner in the firm of Nolte Cornman and Johnson PC in Newton, Iowa. He also established a real estate management firm in Newton and worked there until his death.
Ken is survived by his wife, Betty Foster; his daughter, Sheri (Johnson) Phelps, granddaughter, Maya Phelps and son-in-law, Richard E.H. Phelps, II of Mingo; and his brothers, Melvin of Des Moines and William of Mass. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews and by his wife Betty’s five children and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Rodger Johnson; and his brother, Robert.
Ken devoted 35 years to the after care program at Powell CDC, formerly known as Powell III. He was deeply committed to helping families who were in recovery.
Memorials can be sent to Powell CDC, Lutheran Hospital, 700 E. University Ave., Des Moines, IA 50316. Condolences can be posted on the Hamilton Funeral Home website. He will be buried in Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines, at a later date.
Source: Newton Daily News; July 22, 2020