of Little Rock, AR
April 28, 1949 - August 21, 2012
There is a hole in our lives and an even greater hole in our hearts after the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, William Brock Johnson, early Tuesday morning, August 21, 2012.
Brock was born in Kerrville, Texas, on April 28, 1949. He grew up in Prattsville, Arkansas, and graduated from Prattsville High School where he helped lead the Whippet basketball team. After high school, Brock attended the University of Arkansas, where he graduated with an Undergraduate and Master's degree in Engineering. He was a life-long supporter of the Razorbacks and actively served on the Board of the School of Engineering. After graduating, Brock moved to Little Rock, where he began work for his first and only employer, Garver Engineers. Shortly after, he met the love of his life for the last thirty years, Paula Sue. After he took her sailing, tipped the boat over, and she still was willing to go on another date there was little doubt in his mind she was his soul mate. They married on April 23, 1983 after a quick courtship. Together, they raised three beautiful daughters, Katie, Taylor, and Sloan. Brock and Paula were active members of the Methodist Church, and called many members of their Sunday school class, Serendipity, close friends.
As the President, CEO, and Chairman of the Board of Garver LLC, Brock led the engineering company through transformational growth, doubling its size over five years in spite of the ongoing recession. Brock helped save Garver millions of dollars in health care costs by transforming the office culture to focus on healthy lifestyles. Much to Brock's delight, Garver is the first and only engineering company in Arkansas to earn the Bicycle Friendly designation. Brock also led the design and construction of Garver's new corporate headquarters in North Little Rock, which received the prized LEED Certification. Brock was recognized as one of the best engineers in the State throughout his career, and received numerous accolades.
Brock was a hands-on, "live life to the fullest" type of man. He never missed an opportunity to be outside or to be active. Brock was an avid pilot, sailor, traveler, snow skier, cyclist, and was a fitness enthusiast long before healthy living was a trend. He was a skilled carpenter and was always "Mr. Fix It" for his girls. He enjoyed Friday date nights with his and Paula's dearest friends, Joe and Karen Carter and Dan and Ellen Williams.
Brock's devotion was not limited to his company his love for hard work and Garver was only surpassed by his love for his family. He cherished every moment with Paula and their daughters. He was quick to hop a flight to Dallas or make the short drive to Fayetteville to be with Taylor and Sloan whenever he was called upon whether it was to help string lights for his son-in-law's thirtieth birthday party or visit Crystal Bridges. Brock will be missed by many and our memories of him will live on through his wife, children, and grandchildren. He is survived by his devoted wife, whom he could not have lived without, Paula Sue Johnson; daughters Katie McKnight and her husband Steven of Little Rock, Taylor Johnson of Fayetteville, and Sloan Johnson Milton and her husband Tyler of Dallas; and his three grandchildren Sam, Livy, and Greta McKnight. Brock was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his fourth grandchild and namesake, Brock Roy Milton this September.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held 2:30 p.m., Friday, August 24, 2012, at Fellowship Bible Church, 1401 Kirk Road, Little Rock, with a reception immediately following the service at the church. Arrangements are by Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, (501)224-8300.
Memorials may be made to Bicycle Advocacy of Central Arkansas, 1212 E. 6th Street, Little Rock, Arkansas 72201.
Paula,
You probably don't remember me, but I worked closely with Brock from 1988 through 2000 in Little Rock and in Tennessee and I was Garver's Director of Marketing for several years. I have many happy memories and stories I could share about him, as I'm sure many people do. I live in Indiana now, not doing Marketing any more, and just happened to Google his name and was totally shocked to find that he passed away.
One thing I remember about Brock was that one day, on a long trip, he shared his personal faith with me. We were talking about your Sunday School class and Brock told me his life story including his genuine conversion to Christianity. I have no doubt where he is now, and just wanted to tell you that I have often missed his friendship and counsel as I know you do to too.
Best Wishes,
Ken Wilson
Paula and girls,
Gary and I are praying for each of you and will continue to do so. You have a beautiful family and I'm sure many, many happy memories. May you find peace and comfort in God.
Beverly
Paula and girls,
Wayne and I were saddening to hear about Brock. I know hr left you with many wonderful memories. We will be praying for you all.
Gay
Paula, Katie, Taylor, Sloane, and the entire Garver family,
My sincere condolences to each and everyone of you. I considered Brock a friend, as much as a colleague, and will miss him.
Deborah
Word arrived too late for us to personally be with your family last week. We share in your loss, but know in our hearts that Brock's life will continue to be celebrated in memories that are dear and special to each of you and to so many people beyond your family. May God's richest blessings strengthen you all.
With our love and warmest personal regards,
John & Juanita Wallace
Paula
You and the girls will be in our prayers and god be with you in your time of lost.
Love and prayers from the Taylor Family
Paula and girls,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Brock was such a wonderful man- -always so sweet natured and kind.
Love,
Susie and Victoria
I am truly saddened to hear of Brocks departure. He did indeed live life to the fullest and he treated his friends and collieges with honor, dignity and respect as he did his wonderful family. Brock was a wonderful man and well respected by all. Words can only give temporary comfort to Paula and the girls in this sad time but we are all with you in mind and spirit and lift each of you up with our love.
With deepest sympathy,
Jimmy Calicott
Paula and Girls -
My heart breaks for you at this time of deepest sorrow. I know that your faith, friends and family will help to see you through this valley.
My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Alice
Our office (Dept. of Aeronautics) was very sad to hear of Brock's passing. Please know that your entire family is in our prayers. Brock was a professional engineer in the truest sense of the word and his example is one for all to follow.
Taylor and Family
So sorry for your loss, you are in my prayers.
Dear Paula and Girls,
We are so sorry to hear about Brock. I can't believe it was only in the spring we visited with you at Aldersgate After Dark. Chris has always spoken fondly of the time he shared with Brock at Men's Fraternity. He is smiling down on you from heaven, no doubt. Ours prayers are with your beautiful family and we share your tears.
I am so sorry for your loss. Your family is strong and courageous. I know that you will pull together in hope and love. I know that you will feel the warmth of Brock’s love as you remember his passion, wisdom, courage, and love for you all.
Paula, Taylor, Sloane and Family -
We were so saddened to hear about Brock's passing. We are praying for God's peace and comfort to surround you all during this difficult time.
Ben & Pam Gilbert
Paula,
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Brock's passing. I was not aware that he had cancer. You and your family have my and everyone at McGoodwin, Williams and Yates' condolences.
A few years ago when we were all making the ACEC conventions, I always enjoyed getting together with you and Brock for dinner and other events. Again, our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Carl Yates
Dear Paula & Family,
You may not remember me, but we worked at the State Police together. You were always so full of life and I know you were the perfect soul mate for Brock from what I read in the paper.
My sincere sympathy for your loss. You are in my prayers.
Paula,
Our deepest condolences to you and your family.
Marvin and Marcella
Paula, Taylor, Sloan, and family,
My heart grieves for you. How fortunate you have been to have such a wonderful person in your life. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Paula, Katie, Taylor and Sloane,
Alan and I are so sorry about Brock's passing, and we pray that God's peace will surround you now and in the days to come. Brock was an exceptional man in every way. I remember fondly the years we spent with you in the Serendipity class, and I'll never forget the very short-term stint of Brock and I teaching a very challenging third grade SS class together. There had to be a good cop, bad cop, and of course Brock was the good cop! His gentle spirit and big smile will always be remembered.
Paula,
We were so sorry to hear of Brock's passing. Our hearts and prayers are with you and the girls.
May your memories, the love of family and friends, and the peace of Christ wrap you in comfort.
Much love,
Karen and Mike
Paula, Katie, Taylor & Sloane, we are so sorry for your loss and our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Brock was a great man in so many ways. He lived life to the fullest, and loved you guys so much. He has left a wonderful legacy with his family and Garver and he was a dear friend and client. We will miss him dearly.
Paula,
Our prayers and thoughts are with you, and your family. You were special neighbors and we will always remember you with love and affection.
Our sympathy goes out to you. May God bless you.
Love,
Peggy and Jim
Paula, and Family, my deepest sympathy and condolences are with you! Please know that your friends and past co workers with the Arkansas State Police have you in our thoughts and prayers and May God's blessings be with you as your new grandson, and Brock's namesake, arrives soon! God Bless you all!
PRAYING FOR YOUR FAMILY, WITH DEEPEST
SYMPATHY.
May God bless his family ease the pain of Brock's passing. A full and rewarding life from which we all can learn. He will be missed in the Engineering community of Arkansas.
With respect,
Paul Revis
Katie, you Sam,Gretta and Livvy are in my prayers, we were just looking at pictures of all of us at your house one Christmas when we were all just kids your dad was a happy man having us all around and that is how I will remember him.
We love you
Bill Kellie and family
THINKING OF YOU ALL WITH SYMPATHY AND WISHING YOU PEACE AND COMFORT THROUGHOUT THE UP COMING DAYS! I KNOW YOUR FAITH WILL GET YOU THROUGH, JUST LIKE ALWAYS!!! LOVE AND PRAYERS TO YOU ALL!
Paula, Sam and I are shocked and saddened to hear of Brock's passing. Please know how heavy our hearts are for you and the girls ... may you find comfort and peace during this time knowing he has left a wonderful legacy. He was such a kind and gentle man. With our love- Lois and Sam
We were so saddened to hear about Brock. We really enjoyed getting to know the two of you, and it was so obvious the love you had for each other and for your girls. May God's peace be with you.
Bill and Alice Dennis
Paula... Peter and I were so sorry to hear of Brock's illness and death. You both were such great friends when we lived in Little Rock and our girls were younger. We still think of you with such fondness. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
To the family
I knew Mr Johnson Joe Carter at Snyder Environmental. Anytime he visited the office, he uplifited everyones spirits. I am very saddened for your loss. God bless you all.
Denise
Dear ones - My heart aches for your loss. The kind of man Brock was with Paula, helped a signle mom in need with young children move boxes on a Saturday to our new home. He and Paula saw the need, offered and by the grace of God we accepted. Brock shared with us a rare sensitivity, thoughtfulness and follow through. I will remember always this and many other acts of kindness. I am so sorry for your loss.
Paula, Taylor, and Sloan,
I was so sad to hear about Brocks passing. I think about you guys often, and always ask Amber how you are doing when we talk. I feel blessed to have known you. You always have such a positive spirit, and are so fun to be around.. I have memories of you sponsering me in in the St Judes Bike race for $1 a mile when I was about 12 (I couldn't believe you pledged so much), and coming to my loungerie shower so many years ago, when you didn't have to, but because you wanted to. I know your heart is broken, but I know YOU, and the amazing daughters you and Brock have raised, too, and I know you will be smiling again and doing what you do best, making others around you smile!
Love you All,
Misti
Paula - Brock was one of my favorite people. The ski trips are something I'll always remember fondly. Brock was always willing to head off with me to parts of the mountain that in hindsight we probably shouldn't have done. He was one sharp individual in business, and he talked endlessly about his family. I'll miss him greatly.
Paula....it's been a long time since we moved to Dallas and have seen you two! Our hearts break for you and the girls. Jim and I have been reminiscing about the Sunday School parties at Trinity and our costume parties we had. I remember Brock's red leotards! He is your special Angel now! Our thoughts and prayers will be with you.
Paula, we are so sadden for your loss. We know you and your girls will miss Brock. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time. Charline and Tommy Manning
A great mentor and friend. He will be missed tremendously. It was a great expseience being associated with him. God's care and comfort to the family and friends.
Paula, I am so sorry for the loss of Brock. I know you and your girls will miss him greatly. I still giggle when I think about some of the church youth trips and a couple of the "diasaters" that Brock was involved in. My prayers are with you all during this difficult time and in the many days ahead.
Paula
We are so sorry to hear this news. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Aunt Paula, Katie, Taylor, and Sloanie- my heart is just broken for you all. Life will never be the same without Uncle Brock, but all of our lives are better for having known him. I will never forget the Christmas Eves spent with a giant video camera on his shoulder, "interviewing" all of us about our gifts. Or he and my dad fighting over the last of the Pecan Pie at Thanksgiving. His love & pride for "his girls" was evident in every smile, in the glimmer in his eyes that he had when he looked at you. LBM could not have a better namesake. Praying for comfort and peace for you all, now and in the days to come. We love you all. - Rachel & Cole Brewer
My thoughts and prayers for you all. I know Brock will be missed greatly by some many people, but mostly by his loving family.
EA Waddell
Paula,you and your family are so much in our thoughts today..Our hearts are heavy with the passing of dear Brock. he was such a sweet,kind man every time we saw him and so genuine.We could always see the glow in his eyes when you two were together-he loved you so! A truer friend Joe and Karen will never have and they loved all the trips and date nights you all experienced.. We loved hearing of all the escapades you enjoyed together. Know that we will be praying for you and will be here for you . I know Brock is safely with our Lord and you will see each other again. Blessings to you all. Janey and Eddie
What a good man. I will remember him as a kind and caring person. Paula, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
I only had the pleasure of meeting Brock on one occasion but it only took one meeting to capture the integrity, character and overall goodness Brock displayed in life. My prayers and thoughts go out to his family.
I am so sad for his friends and family but Jesus needed another carpenter on his team.
May your faith bring you blessings and your memories bring you peace.
Toni Rose/President/New Legacy Business Products
I am so glad I had the privilege of working under a leader like Brock and all the other leaders here at Garver. He was a visionary beyond a doubt. He had dreams in the sky, but then he built foundations under them. We would not be where we are today as a company and in our personal growth were it not for Brock. Kathy
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Johnson family.
Brock and I worked together for 17 years and we shared a number of memorable experiences including test driving the Little Rock Airport fire trucks and using the American Airline flight simulator. My wife, Carol, and I want Paula and family to know that you are in our thoughts and we know that you have many good memories to comfort you in the days to come..