Robert Irvin Johnson

Robert Irvin Johnson (Bob) of Venice, FL passed away peacefully at his home the morning of January 24, 2025 at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy of love, adventure and unwavering generosity.

Bob was born 9/30/37 in Albert Lea, MN to Audrey A (Miexell) and Irvin R. Johnson.

Bob proudly served in the US Navy. After graduation from the Naval School of Music in Washington DC, Bob was assigned to the US Naval Academy Band in Annapolis MD, where he sat first chair trumpet serving from 1955 – 1958. After college he taught high school as director of music in Rushford MN.

Bob moved to FL in 1963 where he became very active in the community. He was a smart businessman creating several successful start-up companies both state and nationally. Bob also served on numerous committees such as past director of a bank holding company, Venice Area Chamber of Commerce, manufactured homeowner developments, sponsor and coach of Venice Little League teams, Masonic Lodge. Shriners, Elks Club, past president of Venice Nokomis Rotary Club, a Paul Harris Fellow and active Rotary member for 50+ years to mention a few.

Bob always enjoyed a great adventure, taking family vacations throughout the United States and abroad; Peacock Bass fishing in Brazil, snow skiing in Europe, cruising Alaska, Las Vegas (you know) and beyond. Bob loved Venice, living on the water with memories of his two boys and their friends growing up. One of his favorite activities was boating where he could step onto his boat within 10’ of his bedroom. His last big boating adventure was boarding his cabin cruiser with his dog Cuda where they took the 7,000-mile trek called the Great American Loop. Leaving his home in Venice, they set course to the East coast of FL then North to New York, up the Hudson River to the northern portion of Lake Champlain in the Canadian province of Quebec, traversed the Great Lakes arriving in downtown Chicago. From there he took the Chicago River to the Illinois River to the Mississippi River then down to the Tombigbee River where he eventually emerged into the Gulf of America. His final leg of this epic trip was back to his home in Venice.

Bob was an avid golfer who also enjoyed fishing and hunting and in his earlier years flying his Mooney and King Air airplanes for both business and pleasure. Bob enjoyed attending all spectator sporting events (especially a Rays game) and musical events or just about anything and everything you could come up with. The word “no” was not part of his vocabulary when it came to having a good time.

Bob was a giving man who continuously donated anonymously to worthy causes. He loved his family, friends, and past employees and enjoyed life to the fullest. Bob was truly interested in everyone’s lives demonstrated by his desire to ask many many questions and even a few more. Bob was a gentleman, a loving husband and father and a friend to all. Bob will be missed by many but never forgotten.

Bob is predeceased in death by his parents and first wife Elfreda Ann Johnson who died at the young age of 43. He missed and loved her dearly. Bob would be remiss if we didn’t mention his many great friends that were lost along the way. It brings great comfort knowing they are all rejoicing in a place free of pain and heartache. God bless them all.

Bob leaves behind a family who adored him: his loving wife, Mary Elizabeth (Beth) Johnson, Bob’s two sons from his deceased wife, Dr. Jeffrey P Johnson (Sara), Christopher I Johnson (Linda), five

grandchildren: Cassandra, Carla, Stefan, Mason and Mallori and one sister Marilyn Stegenga. One stepdaughter Cheryl Outerbridge (Kirby), three grand-stepdaughters Brittany, Lindsey, Morgan and six great grand-stepchildren.

All friends and family are welcome to attend a Memorial Service at 2pm Friday March 14th at Emmanuel Lutheran Church 790 S Tamiami Tr. Venice. Following will be an opportunity to mingle with friends and celebrate Bob with good memories at the Venice Yacht Club, 1330 Tarpon Center Dr. Venice, 3:00pm-4:30pm. A mic will be set up for anyone who would like to share a few words. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served and a cash bar will be available.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Venice Nokomis Rotary Club in support of the Rotary Futures Program that provides support to the youth of our community or simply by giving a toast in Bob’s name at the celebration. Farley Funeral Home in Venice is handling the arrangements.  To send a condolence or memory please visit www.farleyfuneralhome.com.

Rest In Peace Bobby Johnson.