Robert W. Johnson

It is with deep sadness, love, and gratitude that family members announce the passing of Robert Weyand Johnson to his heavenly home on May 27, 2022. His beloved wife of 67 years, Lois (Overbeck) Johnson, preceded him in death on May 13, 2014. He is survived by sons, Jeffrey S. Johnson and R. Andrew Johnson, daughters, Laura L. Johnson and Jean A. Scott, 11 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.

Admired and respected by all who knew him, Bob lived a remarkable life of faith, family, business acumen, and service to others. Born on February 9, 1927, he grew up in humble circumstances in Zanesville, Ohio and was raised by a young mother who had immigrated from Germany. His lifelong drive and determination led to honorable service in the Coast Guard during World War II, a jewelry apprenticeship following the war, and then the opening of a small trade shop in 1947. Its growth into a retail business included a location in the basement of a Columbus bank, thus prompting the memorable and lasting name, The Diamond Cellar. Over the next 50 years, those modest beginnings evolved into one of the largest, independently-owned jewelry and luxury products businesses in the United States. Bob’s face was readily recognizable from Columbus television, newspapers, and business magazines, often railing against deceptive practices that hurt the public with his signature tagline: “Frankly, that disgusts me.” The Diamond Cellar continues today into the second and third generation. And Bob’s professional and service legacy has led each of his children into their own influential and divergent careers in the jewelry industry, university fundraising, and real estate.

But Bob was more than a successful businessman. He was an outdoor enthusiast, avid fisherman, and lover of travel and camping…always as opportunities to involve the family. The siren of the local fire engine became the invitation for all to jump in the car and find the latest spectacle. Friday nights were famous for popcorn and cokes. His community-mindedness included participation in the Sherriff’s Auxiliary Department. Even after leaving the demands of his business, his artistic bent and precise craftsmanship expressed itself in the making of fine furniture and leather works of art…the majority made and given as gifts for others. And rarely did the sun go down without the mental engagement of a good Louis L’Amour novel or the political issues of the day.

Bob’s story certainly includes accomplishments of success that continue by any measure. But the greater story is what Bob exemplified in his ready and reputable smile, kindness, decency, perseverance, generosity, and friendships. Friendships that encompassed Ohio, North Carolina in his retirement years, and Willowbrook Christian Retirement Village as the final, much-appreciated setting of his life journey. He will be greatly missed. But there remains a confident anticipation of the joyful reunion that awaits all those family, friends, and “customers” who were blessed by Bob’s very special gifts and presence. No doubt, for now, he and Lois are enjoying a wonderfully-happy and “professional” assessment of Heaven’s “pearly gates” and “streets of gold.”

Family will receive friends at a reception to celebrate Bob from 4-7 P.M. Wednesday, June 22, 2022 at SCHOEDINGER NORTHWEST, 1740 Zollinger Rd. To share memories or condolences, please visit www.schoedinger.com.