Obit: Johnson, Clayton (1866 - 1942)

Contact: Stan

Surnames: Johnson, Edblom, Witte, Feshtner, Nienow, Cook, Burt, Riley

----Sources: Colby Phonograph (Colby, Clark County, Wis.) 05/14/1942

Johnson, Clayton (24 May 1866 - 11 May 1942)

Clayton Johnson, age 76, a pioneer resident of this community, having lived here the past 60 years, was instantly killed Monday night at 11:15 o’clock when he was struck by an auto driven by Arnold Edblom, age 26, of the town of Unity, on Highway 13 opposite the Ed Witte service station. Arthur Edblom, his brother who accompanied him, said Johnson was walking in the middle of the west half of the pavement.

Death was described by Dr. H. H. Feshtner, Marathon county coroner, who, with Frank Nienow, county traffic officer, and George Cook, of Unity, investigated the accident, as a result of a crushed chest. The accident, he said, occurred while it was raining, and the circumstances did not warrant an inquest. Investigators said Edblom stopped his car within seven feet after applying the brakes.

After Johnson was struck, the wheels of the car passed over him. The injuries probably caused instantaneous death, the coroner said. Johnson was walking north on his way home and the Edblom brothers were traveling south toward Unity, Wis.

Edblom said he was proceeding at about 25 miles an hour and that, because of his headlights and the light from a street light at the intersection blending at the time, he was unable to see Johnson until too late to avoid him. He said he notified a physician who instructed him to call authorities. The body was taken to the Lullof Funeral Home.

Johnson, of Indian descent, was born in Calumet county on May 24, 1866, and came to this area with his parents about 60 years ago. He worked as a lather and shingler. In his younger years, he was well known as a base ball player and umpire and as a musician in the community band. In late years, he was known as Colby’s most avid baseball fan. He was married to Isabel Graham of the town of Hull who died 34 years ago.

Survivors are a son, Oscar, of Racine, a daughter, Mrs. Cecelia Burt of Rockford, Ill., a brother, Bert of Eau Claire; a sister, Miss Harriet Johnson, who teaches at Kenosha, three grand children and a great grand child.

The deceased was of a congenial disposition, friendly and polite with all, and enjoyed a wide circle of friends who will miss his friendly companionship.

Funeral services are being held this Thursday morning at 10:30 o’clock at the Lulloff Funeral Home, Rev. A. C. Riley officiating, and internment will be made in the Colby cemetery.