David Charles Johnson, 68, of Linton IN, died Tuesday, Aug 25, 2009 due to an accident involving his light sport aircraft, "The Red Baron." He died as he lived-enjoying life to the fullest. He was a vibrant player in all aspects of life. Dave enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1958 and served during the Cold War and Vietnam eras. As an Aviation Radar Technician he served aboard multiple ships and participated in the Bay of Pigs operations. In addition, he proudly flew F4D Phantom fighters as Radar Intercept Officer (RIO),and additional Navy fighter aircraft at the Naval Flight Test Center, Paxtuxent River, MD . He continued his dedicated support of the United States and the Navy as an engineer for multiple defense contractors, ending his 52 year career with SAIC / Crane.

Dave was born in Sterling, CO to David S and Nema M Johnson, on Sept 14, 1940. He married Dianne Henslee Johnson on June 24, 1978. He loved bow hunting, fishing, flying and the great outdoors; he owned/operated Thunderbird Traditional Archery and hand crafted many heirloom longbows and arrows. Dave was a member of Shawnee Airport, Compton Bowhunters, BPO Elks Lodge #866, the National Rifle Association, and various other organizations. He loved hunting, fishing, flying, and the great outdoors.

David is survived by his wife, Dianne Henslee Johnson, and their children, Tiffany Dianne, Andrew Paul, and Russell Jay of Linton. He is also survived by daughter Kellye Johnson, sons David, Bruce, and Brian Johnson and several grandchildren. David had two sisters, Ruth Foster and Caroll Collins, and one brother, Darrell Johnson.

David was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Randall Johnson.

Visitation will take place at the Anderson-Poindexter Memory Chapel in Linton, IN from 4:00pm to 8:00 pm on Sunday, August 30, 2009. A ceremony to celebrate his life will follow at the Linton First Christian Church at 10:00 AM, Monday, August 31, 2009. Pastor and friend Rod Hoschouer will officiate. Military Honors will be provided by American Legion Post #22 and VFW Post #7118. For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.

Interment will take place on Thursday, September 3, 2009 at 12:00 PM at Marion National Cemetery in Marion, Indiana.

Online condolences may be sent to www.andersonpoindexter.com