William "Butch" Eugene Johnson

William Eugene Johnson, 77, of Columbia passed away on Tuesday, August 7, 2018, at The Neighborhoods care facility in Columbia.

 A celebration of life event will be held for family & friends from 2:00 - 4:00 pm on Sunday, September 2, 2018, at Agave Mexican Restaurant, 901 Safari Drive.  Mr. Johnson will be interred with military honors at Missouri State Veterans Cemetery, Jacksonville at a later date.

Butch, as he was known by many, was born April 8, 1941, in Columbia to Wilson & Maxine (Merideth) Johnson. However, after his first grandson called him "Boo" instead, that moniker stuck for the last 32 years of his life.

Johnson was a standout athlete in Mid-Missouri at Columbia Hickman ('59) and in various leagues, including baseball, basketball and football—though he discovered his true passion, golf, later in life.

Butch was a veteran of the US Marine Corps and honors graduate from Central Methodist College in Fayette. He spent the majority of his career with the US Postal Service, retiring in 1999 after 30 years of service in Columbia and Sturgeon offices.

Survivors that will miss his generous heart, dry wit and unwavering support include his wife of 54 years, Bettie Johnson; sons, Jeff Johnson of Springfield and Jay Johnson of Columbia; a brother, Larre Johnson, of La Canada, CA; a sister, Jody Ausmus of Centralia; grandchildren Jacob, Grant, Rachael, Cassidy, Makenze and Savana; and great grandchildren Jack, Brooklyn, Sofia and Lincoln; and his two puppies, Reo and Izzie.

Memorials are suggested to the Humane Society or other animal service organization of your choice.

Arrangements entrusted to Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, Columbia, MO.

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