Neosho radio legend Herkermer P. Pushbroom dead at 86

Those of us who had the opportunity to listen to Neosho station KBTN during the '70s and '80s will never forget the folksy disc jockey Herkermer P. Pushbroom. Joe Johnson, who used the Pushbroom name during his 18-year stint at 
KBTN died today at age 86. His obituary is provided below:

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Joe B. Johnson, a/k/a Herkermer P. Pushbroom, 85, Neosho, died Jan. 9, 2014 at his home, following a lengthy illness.

 Joe was born August 2, 1928 in Lawrence County, MO and was a lifelong area resident of the Neosho area.

 Following his high school graduation, he began working at Radio Station KFSB in Joplin and then moved to Wichita, KS in 1950 to continue his radio career. He served in the U. S. Army for two years and following his discharge from the military, he resumed his radio and television career until 1963. He returned to Missouri and began preaching and farming. 

In 1972 he began his tenure at KBTN radio, known as Herkermer P. Pushbroom. He continued his farming and preaching, working at KBTN for 18 years and retired in 1990.

 Following his retirement from radio, he continued full time in the ministry, serving 11 congregations during his career and worked until 6 weeks ago. Joe was a member of the Church of Christ, an honorary FFA Member and a commercial pilot. He married Delora Imogene (Jean) Alsdurf on Jan. 14, 1950 at Neosho and she survives of the home. Also surviving are four children, Steven Joe Johnson and wife, Becky, Diamond; Jack Johnson and wife, Tammy, Pea Ridge, AR; John Johnson and wife, Beth, Neosho and Kerry Johnson, Seneca; 8 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.

Viewing Noon - 4:00 PM, Sunday, January 12, 2014 Clark Chapel of Memories 312 S. Wood St. Neosho, Mo 64850

Visitation 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Sunday, January 12, 2014 Clark Chapel of Memories 312 S. Wood St. Neosho, Mo 64850