Don Johnson (politician)

Don Johnson was born in Pawnee, Oklahoma. During World War II, he served in the European theatre and after returning to the United States he attended the University of Missouri, earning a degree in journalism. He was also a member of the Missouri Tigers football team. After returning to Oklahoma, he was the advertising manager for the Valley Evening Monitor and the Pawnee Chief. From 1958 to 1972 he was the manager of the Pawnee Chamber of Commerce.^[1]

He served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives representing the 35th district from 1973 until his death in 1985. He was preceded in office by Rex Privett and he was a member of the Democratic Party.^[2]

He died in Oklahoma City on February 21, 1985.^[1] His wife, Charlene, ran for his vacant house seat after his death and was the Democratic nominee, but lost the special election to Larry Ferguson.^[3]