James Martin Johnson, 57, of Russell, Kansas, died on Sunday, May 6, 2012, at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.

James was born on January 11, 1955, in Logan, Kansas, the son of Harold and Opal (Johnson) Johnson.  He grew up in the Colorado and Kansas areas but has lived in Russell most of his life.  He worshiped with St. John Lutheran Church of Russell and was a longtime resident at Wheatland Nursing Center in Russell.

Surviving family include his father Harold Johnson and wife Sherril of Lenora, Kansas; guardian Connie Schinkus and son Conner; a brother and 5 sisters.

He was preceded in death by his mother.

A graveside memorial service to celebrate James’ life will be held at 1 P.M. on Thursday, May 17, 2012, at the St. John Lutheran Cemetery in Russell with Pastor Roger Dennis officiating.  Cremation has preceded the services and inurnment of the cremains will follow the graveside service.  Immediately following the service a reception will be held at Wheatland Nursing Center in Russell.  Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell is in charge of the memorial service.