Marion Johnson

Peacefully on December 7, 2020 Marion "Herb" Johnson passed away. He was the beloved husband of the late Mary F. Johnson. Also survived by his loving children and many other loving relatives and friends. Marion Herbert Johnson “Herb” was born and raised in South Baltimore.  He attended Southern High School and transferred to Mergenthaler High School for printing in his junior year. Herb served in the United States Merchant Marines during WWII from 1942-1946 as a Chief Radio Operator after training at Gallops Island (Boston). His service began on the “old” United States Steam Ship “Arizpa” but also, served on the more “modern” Liberty Ships (“Felipi de Bastrop”) at the War’s end. His tours ranged from Halifax N.S. to the Mediterranean to Brazil to the Philippines. He continued to pursue his interests in radio as an amateur (ham) radio operator maintaining his license for over fifty years. He enjoyed being a HAM radio operator building much of his rig from Heath kit.  His call sign was W30KW.  Herb worked for Waverly Press, a printing company for Williams and Wilkins Inc., a medical publishing company in Baltimore for 43 years beginning as a typesetter then as a quality control inspector. Herb enjoyed playing doubles tennis as well as dabbing into photography. He was the family photographer while his children were growing up. After retirement he joined his wife, Mary Frances, on many worldwide travel excursions and trips to visit his children and grandchildren. His children survive Herb: Katherine Showman (John), Martin (Rita), James (Laura), Gerard (Sandra), Philip (deceased, 2016) (Laurie), Jeanne Johnson Koester (Scott), and Angela Smith (Doug).  Fourteen grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren also survive him.  His beloved wife of 67 years Mary Francis (nee Schulz), and two grandchildren predecease him. Since 2008, Herb and Mary Francis have resided at Charlestown Retirement Community in Catonsville. Interment and service will be grave side with only family members present.  Herb will be laid to rest at Parkwood Cemetery in Parkville alongside his wife.

Family and friends may visit at the Ambrose Funeral Home of Lansdowne 2719 Hammonds Ferry Rd. on Saturday from 12:30-1:00pm. A Graveside Service will follow at the Parkwood Cemetery at 2:00pm.