Daniel Johns

Daniel E Johns, 86, died at home on December 22, 2015. He was born November 30, 1929 in Honolulu, HI to George Washington Johns and Maude Washburn Johns. Raised in Lincoln, NE, he spent his adult life in Colorado Springs, CO and retired in 2001 to Sun City, AZ. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Laura Jean Janke Johns; his children, Michael D Johns (Paulette Pearson) of Colorado Springs, CO and Cynthia Jo Johns of Kearney, MO; grandchildren, Christopher Johns and Jamie Melde (Matt); Sister-In-Law, Vera Kahl (Cliff) and Brother-In-Law, James Janke (Rosie) and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters and a nephew. Dan graduated from North East High School in Lincoln, NE in 1948 and served in the US Army during the Korean War. He was the Drum Major in both the 43rd US Army band and the University of Nebraska marching band. He graduated with a BS in Education from the University of Nebraska and MS in Vocational Education from Colorado State University. Dan's first teaching assignment brought him and his family to Colorado Springs, CO in 1959. He taught woodshop and vocational cabinet making at the new Wasson High School where he won the Colorado State Vocational Teacher of the Year Award. In 1971, Dan transferred to the new Coronado High School where he retired in 1983. As an educator, he was dedicated to his students, instilling a work ethic, demanding perfection from each while providing students tools to confront challenges awaiting them. He had a firm hand, forgiving heart and a John Wayne mentality that served him and his students well. Dan was a master carpenter and developed treasured relationships. His eye for detail and vision turned stacks of wood into spectacular custom cabinetry which still grace many homes and businesses. At age 9, he found a trumpet which grew to be his passion and 2nd career as a professional musician. He played in bands throughout his life, including performances with civilian groups featuring members from the United States Air Force Academy Band. He loved Big Band, Jazz, and Dixieland music. Among his favorite gigs was playing for years with Frank Fanelli at the Tavern in the Broadmoor Hotel. Arizona retirement included playing with Sun City Concert Band, Pops Band, The All Stars and Desert Brass. He was known locally as "The Miracle Man" because he defied medical science for over 4 years while playing his horn on oxygen. Daniel E. Johns (Danny to his musician friends), left this world a better place while fighting the lung disease that claimed him. His trumpet was the magic pill while his friends and family were his inspiration. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing, camping, boating and 5th Wheel RV traveling. He donated his body to science. Mr. Johns, Danny, Dan, Dad, Honey thank you for everything. We will see you again! A memorial service will be held on Feb 1, 2016, 11am at Willowbrook United Methodist Church at 19390 N 99th Ave. Sun City, AZ with a reception and lunch to follow. Donations may be made to Desert Brass Band at 9559 W Willowbrook Dr. Sun City, AZ 85373 Service Information Monday, February 1st, 2016 11:00am, Willowbrook United Methodist Church