
Stephen “Steve” Duane Johnson
1952 – 2024
Stephen “Steve” Duane Johnson, 71, passed away peacefully at home on October 9th, 2024. Steve was born to Woodrow Johnson and Vivian Osborn Johnson on December 19th, 1952, in Edmond, Oklahoma. Steve spent most of his life in the Oklahoma City area, but most recently resided in Catoosa, Oklahoma with his wife of 30 years, Annette. Steve is survived by his wife, Annette; daughters, Michelle Mathis, and Brandy Double; grandchildren, Lauren McFarland, Kelsi Ceranski, Hunter Tanner and his wife Felicia, Kate Ceranski, Chase Tanner and his wife Kenzie, Reese Mathis, and Noah Double; three great-grandchildren; sister, Donna Chastain; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow and Vivian Johnson, and siblings, Linda Clonts, Richard Johnson, and Denton Johnson.
Steve received his early education in Edmond, Oklahoma. He left school around the time of the birth of his oldest daughter and later earned his GED. Steve held many jobs throughout his life, including sweeping the floor of a cabinet shop at the age of 14, retail sales where he met his wife, door shop manager, and oil field light tower delivery. He retired in 2015.
Steve enjoyed woodworking and was very good at making furniture and doing kitchen and bath remodels in his home. He enjoyed golfing for many years but, frustrated by his golf scores, he transitioned to watching golf instead of playing. He enjoyed traveling with his wife, while complaining about the cost, to destinations that included New York City and a special 25th anniversary trip to Hawaii. Steve was a New York Yankee fan since he was a child when Mickey Mantle played. It was a rare occasion that Steve wasn’t wearing his Yankee cap when he left home. From a young age, he cared deeply about all animals. This included not only his cats and dogs, but the neighbor’s dogs as well. Over the years, he has probably spent a small fortune on Milk-Bones to share with visiting dogs. Deer may have also benefited from Steve’s consistent warning to visitors driving to and from his home to, “Watch out for deer”.
Steve had a great sense of humor and loved making people laugh. He could light up a room and loved being the center of attention. He was friendly and a great conversationalist and could talk with anybody.
Steve was a devoted father. He was so grateful and happy to have a loving relationship with both of his daughters.
Steve was a thoughtful, considerate, and loving husband. He was Annette’s best friend since 1987 and cherished their time together. Without hesitation, he moved halfway across Oklahoma to be with her when her family needed her. He expressed his love for her daily both verbally and with his actions.
He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
A memorial service will be held Wednesday, October 16, 2024, beginning at 1:00 p.m. at the Matthews Funeral Home Chapel, 601 S. Kelly Ave., Edmond, OK 73003.
Michelle, Brandi, Annette and family.
You are in my Prayers! My 55 year friend passing has left a hole in our hearts. I as you will miss his laugh, and just talking with him. He always made me laugh. I know he loved his girls! He was a good man. Loved him and you! Terry
He was very dear to me too. He was always around my whole life it seems like. We had a lot of laughs & fun & he was the best Uncle ever. I will deeply miss him. See you again & love you always! Love & Prayers for Annette & Michelle & Brandy also. – Jan I Harrison
Annette and family, I am so sorry to hear about Steve. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Steve, rest in peace dear cousin. I didn’t get to see you often but when we did get together you gave the best hugs. I will miss those hugs, your smile and your laugh. Love you!
Your cousin,
Cheryl Johnson Trenfield
Annette, I was so sorry to hear about Steve. We all worked together for quite a few years and over time became friends & golf partners. Steve was such a fun guy to work with, I never knew what he was going to say but we usually had a big laugh about it. Both you & Steve were a big part of my life back in the day. My thoughts & prayers are with all of you.
John Robertson