Corwin Johnson, Iii

Corwin Johnson, 71, of Overland Park, passed away Sunday, February 19, 2017, after battling anoxic brain injury for nearly two years. Corwin was born September 1, 1945 in Ohio to Corwin and Betty Johnson. He was well-educated, earning a degree in human resources, and he dedicated himself to his work. He managed five-star restaurants across the country, eventually transitioning to a career as a labor negotiator. He retired from Embarq in 2009.

But Corwin would want you to know about his true appetites: the adventures he shared with the people he loved, the delicious food, the finest wine, and an eclectic soundtrack.

Corwin travelled a lot for his work, and he often relocated. He enjoyed time in Ohio, Florida, Massachusetts, Chicago, Las Vegas, and finally, Kansas City. After settling in Overland Park, he met Kathy Anderson in 2004 and they later married on November 11, 2011, because they anticipated 11/11/11 would be an easy anniversary to remember as they grew old together.

Corwin was the proud father of two daughters, Lindsay and Lauren, who both also moved to Kansas City. He was considered a father by Kathy's children, Stephanie and Christopher, as well. Corwin was a terrific role model. He had high expectations, and he went to great lengths to help anyone who put forth their best effort. You could say his tolerance level for whine was the exact opposite his tolerance level for wine.

Corwin lived for making memories, which often included amazing meals, and a glass or three of wine. He insisted on celebrating all the holidays, every accomplishment, and he never missed a birthday. For many of their anniversaries, Corwin presented Kathy with handmade collages of memoirs he collected from their escapades throughout the year. He always went out of his way to prepare unique meals for special occasions, and recognize his loved ones' achievements and milestones.

Corwin's taste for music was obvious. He was frequently found jamming in the kitchen as he cooked, and he attended more concerts than most people half his age. The Black Keys, Eric Clapton, the Dixie Chicks, Blind Faith, the Beatles, Steve Earl, Janis Joplin, Tori Amos, the Decemberists, Vienna Teng, Imelda May, Boz Scaggs, Mumford & Sons, Robert Plant, and Alison Krauss were among his favorite artists. He was also very fond of the theatre and musicals, and he took Kathy to see the Trans-Siberian Orchestra every year.

Corwin appreciated being outside too. He golfed at every opportunity, with anyone who would meet him for a round. Despite his best efforts though, his children failed to pick up this hobby. He had better luck with his three grandsons, however, who delighted in fishing trips with their Papa.

Corwin was an adoring grandfather. He took great pleasure in showing his grandsons how to enjoy life, teaching them how to exhibit their best behavior, and when it was alright to sneak in a bit of playful wit. He taught them the value of saving money, paying them to pick up sticks in the yard, and rejoicing with them for saving enough to buy a coveted toy. They were his sous chefs in the kitchen and his cuddlers on the couch. His relationship with them was special and one of a kind.

Corwin made friends easily and he found great pleasure in entertaining. He enjoyed hosting wine tastings for the neighbors, laughing late into the evening. He showed off his mischievous sense of humor one year especially, when he wrote a "Clark Griswold" letter to a neighbor after noticing a burnt out bulb in their Christmas display. Another year, he snuck over in the middle of the night to exchange Rudolph's red nose for a green bulb.

Equally important as those close and near to him, Corwin supported his community and local business. He much preferred spending his money at independent shops and patronizing locally owned restaurants. He quested for the most superior burger in all of Kansas City, but found he liked them all. He was acquainted with many local purveyors of fine wine and first-class feasts. It was not uncommon for him to request an autograph from the chef.

Corwin had a radiant smile and a twinkle in his eyes. He had a clever mind and a generous heart. His laughter permeated a room, much like the delicious aroma of the meals he composed. Words cannot express the impression he leaves on those who love him. Corwin's legacy will be his vision of the world; as an organ donor, his eyes will serve the sight of others.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy; his children and grandchildren, Lindsay and Hector Flores, and their son Corwin, Lauren Johnson and her son Kaden, Stephanie Anderson, and Christopher Anderson and his son Joey; his stepmother, Alice Johnson; his sisters, Pam Lenaham, Becky Bennett, and Christine and her husband Gary Gaskill; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial will be held Saturday, February 25, 2017 at Amos Family Funeral Home, 10901 Johnson Dr, Shawnee, KS 66203. Visitation will be at 2pm, and the service will begin at 3pm. The family will host a reception at their home following the memorial. Please join us to share your love of family, food, wine, and most of all, Corwin.