Darrin Lee Johnson, 53, of Granger passed away peacefully on Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024, at the VA Central Iowa Health Care System in Des Moines, Iowa.
Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10 at the Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home-Perry Chapel at 1721 Park St. in Perry. The funeral service will take place at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11 at the funeral home. Interment with military honors will follow at the Woodward Cemetery in Woodward, Iowa. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.caldwellparrish.com
Darrin was born April 19, 1971, in Burlington, Iowa, to Donald L. Johnson and Marcene K. Dowell.
Darrin graduated from Mt. Pleasant High School but always considered himself a proud Greyhound of Burlington High School. He pursued higher education, earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice with a minor in computer crime.
Darrin served his country with dedication for 15 years, combining his time in the U.S. Army National Guard and the U.S. Army, achieving the rank of staff sergeant.
His professional career included 15 years at the Woodward Resource Center and another 15 years with the Union Pacific Railroad, before retiring on disability.
Darrin’s greatest joy came from the time he spent with his family, creating cherished memories with his wife and children.
He was an avid fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Chicago Bears, though he’d humorously admit that his children often outshone him in football knowledge.
Darrin also loved traveling, attending concerts and enjoying life’s adventures.
Darrin is survived by his loving wife, Mandy Johnson; and his children, Hailey (fiancée Toby Campfield) Morrison and Haydon Johnson; his brother, Brion (Carolin) Johnson; sisters, Kim Johnson, Kami Johnson and Kortni (Michael) Kane. He was a proud uncle to numerous nieces and nephews and leaves behind a host of extended family and dear friends.
Darrin was preceded in death by his parents and both sets of grandparents.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family to honor Darrin’s life and legacy.
