Orton H. Johnson, 97, St. Regis Falls

Orton H. Johnson longtime resident of St. Regis Falls entered into rest Wednesday September 8, 2010 at the Adirondack Medical Center, Saranac Lake.

He was born February 24, 1913 in St. Regis Falls, the son of Fred and Jennie (Orton) Johnson. He was a 1930 graduate of St. Regis Falls, and the Coyne Electrical Trade School in Chicago. He joined the United States Navy July 27, 1942 and was honorably discharged as Chief Electricians Mate on October 29, 1945. While serving his country he was awarded the Asiatic- Pac. Campaign Medal, Philllippinne Liberation Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal.

Returning home, he married Ruth Votra in 1948 and began raising their family of four. He owned and operated the Johnson Lumber Company sawmill for 25 years and retired as a maintenance electrician from Crucible Steel Company in 1979. Besides being a WWII veteran, Orton believed in giving back to his community. He was a member of the Civilian Conservation Corp for two years in Idaho; Supervisor for the Town of Waverly; President of the school board in St. Regis Falls; Franklin County Boces; and the Franklin County Board of Supervisors.

He is survived by three sons and one daughter, John, James, Michael and his wife Robin, and his daughter Ann, all of St. Regis Falls; and five grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Orton was predeceased by two brothers and one sister, Rowley and Kenneth (Bob) and his sister Doris Hall.

Memorial contributions in honor of Orton may be made to the St. Regis Falls Volunteer Fire and Rescue.

Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements have been entrusted with the Hammill Funeral Home, St. Regis Falls.

Online condolences and memories may be shared with the Johnson family atwww.hammillfh.com.