E. Daniel Johnston, 86, of Springfield, went to be with his Lord Jesus Christ Friday, April 13, 2012. Dan was born in Pittsburg, PA and a Springfield resident of 67 years. After serving in the Navy during WW II, Dan moved to Springfield, and had an extensive career at the Assembly of God''s National Headquarters; The Gospel Publishing House. There he produced the GPH catalog as Merchandise Manager, along with administering operations of GPH''s new Radient Bookstores and after 43 years of service, he retired in 1993. First and foremost in Dan''s life was his relationship with Jesus Christ, and he served faithfully as a member of the Central Assembly of God Church, for 60 years. His church service included, ushering and incorporating his culinary skills for special events, senior citizen breakfasts and church retreats. Dan loved the Lord Jesus Christ with all his heart, tried to live his life showing kindness and love to others, through prison ministries, mission giving and volunteering. He lived his faith and made sure that his children and grandchildren knew Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and the prodigious power of prayer. Everyone who knew Dan will not only miss his laugh, finesse and generous hospitality, but anyone who ever had the pleasure of tasting our dad''s ribs, would without question, say his barbeque was hands down "a little bit better than the very best". Adored by his family and will be forever missed! Survivors include: Daughter Jana J. Pederson of Fort Worth, TX (granddaughter) Cheyenne Pederson; Son Dan Johnston of Springfield, MO (grandchildren) Jeremiah Johnston and wife Mary (great-grandchildren, Grayson, Izabell, Shepherd, Miah & Violet), Michael Johnston and wife Mary of Urbana IL, Seth Johnston; Daughter Susan MJ Rankin and husband John of Anchorage, AK (Grandchildren) Charise MJ Harp and husband Quinn, Selena Jackson, Trey Jackson; Brother-in-law, Scotty Leigh; Nieces, Jacque Dolinger and husband Larry, Sherry Helwig and husband Loren, great nieces and nephews; Cousin Karen Truitt Good friends Pastor Pat Denadio and wife Ruth, Leta and Trish Bradford. Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Obediah and Panzie Johnston, Brothers David J. Johnston and his wife Arlene, Kenneth Johnston and a Sister Marian E. Leigh. A funeral will be held at 2:00 Thursday April 19th at Klingner-Cope, White Chapel with Reverend Patrick Donadio and Reverend Hubert Morris officiating. Burial will be in White Chapel Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends at 1:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Dan's name to Central Assembly of God, Youth camp scholarships.