Nicholas Shelton Johannes, “Nick”, entered eternal rest on April 7, 2025. Born October 9, 1951, in Carthage, Missouri, the son of Jack and Carolyn (Frost) Johannes. Nick’s life was a tapestry woven with devotion to his family, and his community.
Nick’s early years were spent in the town of his birth, where he attended Carthage High School, graduating in 1969. Nick then attended Southwest Missouri State University (Springfield) and Missouri Southern State College (Joplin), where he earned a bachelor’s degree in biology. This passion for understanding life’s intricacies charted the course for his future, guiding him into a career as an environmental and safety engineer. A career that spanned over five decades, Nick’s dedication to his profession was unwavering, culminating in his retirement in 2022.
At the heart of Nick’s life was his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife Julia (Smith) Johannes, who he met on a blind date while in college and a loving father to his daughter Nicole Willoughby and her husband Mark. His role as grandfather to Tori and Addison Willoughby brought him immeasurable joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Nick’s love extended to his mother, Carolyn Johannes, his brother Jack Allen Johannes, and his sisters, Janette Johannes and Annette Johannes-Seyle, all of whom shared in the richness of his life. His sister-in-law Connie Wilson, along with her husband Brad, also held a special place in Nick’s heart. He was preceded in death by his father, Jack Johannes, who no doubt instilled in him the values of hard work and integrity that he carried throughout his life.
Nick’s contributions to his community were significant and multifaceted. He served as Vice President of the Ozark Mountain Cutting Horse Association for over a decade and was a proud member of both the National Cutting Horse Association and the American Quarter Horse Association. His commitment to his community was further demonstrated through his service as County Commissioner for the Jasper County Special Road District. Nick attended First United Methodist Church of Carthage, where his faith and fellowship were integral parts of his life.
Beyond his professional and civic engagements, Nick had a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures in life. He found solace in helping others, a hobby that mirrored his selfless nature. His affinity for animals was evident in his pastime of showing horses and raising Australian Shepherd dogs, as well as Santa Gertrudis and Red Angus cattle. These activities not only brought him closer to nature but also to the people who shared his interests.
Memorial visitation will be held from 5 to 7 pm, Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to National Multiple Sclerosis Society in care of Knell Mortuary. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.
