Eldon Eugene Johnson, 72 of Yutan, NE, died peacefully at his home December 8, 2013.  On October 12, 1941, Eldon was born at his parents’ home 2 ½ miles south of Mead, NE, which, fittingly enough, is now Mead Cattle Company’s Mechanical Shop area.  Six weeks after his birth, because of the building of the US Ordinance Plant, the family moved two miles west to their new home place. Eldon called this home for 68 years. He had graduated from Mead High School in 1959 and from there began his lifelong career as a farmer and livestock producer.  He worked with his father for many years and farmed with his son, Duane, the last 30 years.  On April 20, 1963, Eldon married the love of his life, Beverly Ann Mumm of Yutan.  To this union, four children were born: Patricia Ann, Duane Eugene, Judith Louise and Jolene Kay.  Four years ago, he and Beverly built his dream home four miles south of Yutan overlooking his beautiful farm land.  Eldon was baptized, attended Sunday School and was confirmed at Alma Lutheran Church in Mead and served on the church council.  Four years ago, he became a member of Lutheran Church of the Master in Elkhorn.  Eldon was a member of the Saunders County Livestock Feeders Association for 46 years where he also served on the board.  He served on numerous other boards, including: Farmers Union Coop of Wahoo, Mead Public School and the Precinct Board.  He was also a member of the Saunders County Soybean Association.

Eldon’s life calling was taking care of Gods soil and caring for his animals.  His family’s needs were always top priority.  He enjoyed going to cattle sales, fishing and just going for a drive in his pickup to enjoy the development of his crops.  His favorite evening out was to enjoy prime rib at Farmer Browns Steak House in Waterloo.

Eldon is survived by his dear spouse, Beverly; three children and spouses, Patricia and Jerry Layher, Springfield, NE, Duane and Cheryl Johnson, Mead, NE, and Judy and Scott Loschen, Erie, CO; ten grandchildren, Benjamin, Daniel, Amanda and Matthew Layher, Kristina, Olivia, Victoria and Sheldon Johnson, Chase and Riley Loschen; brother and sister in law, Dale and Dorothy Johnson, Wahoo, NE; brother in law, Ed Morris, Omaha, NE; many nieces and nephews.  Preceded in death by his parents Leroy and Ruth (Hanson) Johnson, daughter Jolene, sisters Lila Morris and Elaine Henrichson.