Douglas Craig Johnson

Douglas Craig Johnson was born July 14, 1950, in Smith Center, KS, to Neil and Norma Johnson. Craig grew up in rural Phillips County, attending country school through the sixth grade, then attending grades 7,8, and 9 in Agra, KS. Craig then attended high school at Phillipsburg High School, graduating in 1968. Craig attended Kansas State University, Colby Community College, and Fort Hays State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Geology in 1972. Craig was a geologist from 1972-1976. In 1975, Craig married Jan (Roberts), and in 1976, they returned to the family farm. They were married for 51 years. To this union, two children were born: Dustin Johnson and Danielle Johnson Landen. Craig farmed with his dad, Neil Johnson, and established Neil Johnson and Son Farms. Upon Neil’s death in 2008, it became Johnson Angus Farm. Craig was a member of the United Methodist Church, Phillipsburg, and the Phillipsburg Rodeo Association, serving as a director for 30 years. Craig also served as a board member of the Phillips County Farm Bureau, Kansas Farm Bureau Resolutions Committee, and as a member committeeman of the Kansas Livestock Association.

Craig enjoyed farming, riding horses, and his cows. He and Neil were instrumental in developing a breeding program using longhorn bulls to promote calving ease in heifers. Craig loved spending time with his grandchildren, Dakota, Madi, Izzy, Cord, and Clancy, especially teaching each of them how to ride a horse. Craig was a friend to many, never meeting a stranger. Seemed like everywhere he went, he knew someone through cattle, rodeo, Farm Bureau, or KLA. He loved spending time with friends. He was a strong-willed man and would defend family and friends to the end. This was a man that loved deeply, and simply- a son’s love, a husband’s love, a father and grandfather’s love, a family’s love, and a friend’s love. A love that will stay inside us, mixed in with moments and memories.