November 25, 1936 – January 22, 2022

“Well done, good and faithful servant… come and share in your Master’s happiness” (Matthew 25:21).

Mervin Carl Johnson, longtime resident of Craig and Meeker, passed away January 22, 2022 in Colorado Springs, Colorado after a lengthy illness. He was 85.

Merv was born in Montrose, Colorado on November 25, 1936 to Carl and Ernestine (Gardner) Johnson. He was raised in Montrose. While in high school he met Ruth Madden; her committed faith had a profound impact on Merv and he accepted Christ at age 17. Merv and Ruth graduated from Montrose High School in 1955 and were married that fall. Three children were born to them over the next seven years.

Called by God to full-time Christian ministry, Merv studied at Intermountain Bible College in Grand Junction. While a student he served as summer preacher in Riverton, Wyoming. After five years as minister of the Christian Church in Delta, Colorado, Merv accepted the preaching position at Craig Christian Church in 1965. He served in this role until 1982. During that time the Craig church helped start congregations in Vernal, Utah as well as Rock Springs and Rawlins, Wyoming.

Following three years as church planters in Montana, in 1986 Merv and Ruth returned to Colorado as minister of the Meeker Christian Church. Ruth worked at Meeker Drug and then Pioneers Hospital until her death in 1997. Although he officially retired in 2002, Merv continued to serve throughout northwest Colorado. He still preached regularly and officiated many weddings and funerals. His preaching style was simple and focused on practical application of biblical truth. He was also renowned for his sense of humor and storytelling.

Merv had many other interests and hobbies. He bred and trained several quarter horses. While living in Craig he regularly served with the Moffat County Sherriff’s Posse, including parades and mounted search and rescue. He enjoyed working on cars and once converted a 1966 Volkswagen Beetle into a flatbed “truck.” As an amateur gunsmith Merv built several firearms and was active for many years in various leadership roles with the Meeker Sportsmen’s Club.

Merv Johnson was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife of 41 years, Ruth; and his brother Elvin. He is survived by 3 children: daughter Carlina Duggan of Northglenn, CO, son M.C. Johnson (wife Joan) of Pineville, MO, and son Scott Johnson (wife Holly) of Colorado Springs, CO; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Merv’s family suggests that memorial gifts be directed to Manhattan Christian College, Manhattan, Kansas [mccks.edu].

The family is conducting a private graveside service and burial at Grand View Cemetery in Montrose. A public memorial service will be planned for May 2022, with details to come.