John Lee Robertson

Livestream Link: https://my.gather.app/remember/john-lee-robertson

John Lee Robertson’s life began on October 27, 1960, in Anchorage, Alaska. He was born to Audrey Miller and John Robertson. They later divorced.

Even as a young boy, he carried a spark—a mix of imagination, talent, and determination that stayed with him throughout his life.

In 1969 his mother came to Vernal, Utah and married Weldon Wooley, the man became a father figure for Johnny. Weldon taught him the value of hard work, whether on the farm or in the oilfield. Johnny had nothing but respect for the “old man”. Not referring to him as old in age, but in respect. Not knowing then, but Vernal would be the place he would choose to have a family and raise children.

Johnny grew up in a big, lively family with his mom being his best cheerleader, especially after he got hurt. He has left behind his siblings, Raymond Robertson (Vernal), Barbara Speirs, Eric (Vernal), Gene Robertson, Cheryl (Vernal), Debbie Richens (Vernal), Michelle Nichols (Wyoming). Their relationships were filled of teasing, loyalty, competition, and love. With his brothers especially, he carried a lifelong rivalry on the golf course. Their games were fierce, funny, and full of pride—the kind of competition only brothers can understand. This rivalry also showed up on the baseball fields in Vernal and a few out-of-town places.

Johnny married Shona Stubbs/Jackson; they later divorced but welcomed 2 children, Morgan Robertson, Kim (Vernal) and Erin Robertson also of Vernal.

Johnny later married Zinna Yvonne Ellis and welcomed 3 children, Brandon Eugene (Vernal), Joseph Ryan (Utah), and Autumn Renae (Texas). They later divorced. Johnny raised children on his own with the help of family and friends. Johnny’s children remained the center of his heart. Then came the grandchildren. They were not just part of his life; they were his pride, his joy, and gave him a different purpose.

Johnny leaves behind many nieces and nephews, each having a place in his heart. He had his own way of being remembered by those who knew him, always had a joke or a story to tell.

Johnny was also known throughout the community for his baseball talent. Being invited to play ball with others from all different places in the United States and other countries. Stories have been told about his throwing ability, especially with rocks. A deadly marksman when he threw a rock. His children can testify to his ability when they thought they could outrun him on foot. Johnny was a serious advocate for Athletes to Addicts helping to raise funds for the purpose. He took great pride in being a part and always hoped he would be an inspiration. Johnny also dedicated a chapter of his life to serving the community being a volunteer for the VITA program, sponsored by the IRS, volunteering to help people get their taxes done for free. He later was introduced to Foster Grandparent Program, where his role to influence by helping with homework or any other project they could talk him into didn't go unnoticed. His name soon became “Grandpa”. Johnny also was a supporter and volunteer in a program offering afternoon snacks to children. He was not only cherished by the children but the staff as well. When he became sick, he received a personal card from each of the children that he had touched their lives. Their cards made a difference.

Johnny was also a natural musician both with the piano and guitar. Music wasn't learned; it was something that lived in him. He shared that gift with his grandchildren, passing down not just talent, but the joy of creating something beautiful. He wrote poems, composed songs, and turned emotion into a melody without much effort.

He also had a mind that worked uniquely different—in a way that made the world interesting. When he hunted rocks, he didn’t see shapes; he saw stories, faces, and hidden worlds inside them. His imagination was alive, playful, and endless.

Johnny had humor, He always had a joke ready, always knew how to make someone laugh, knew how to lighten a heavy moment. His humor was part of his identity. --a way he connected, comforted, and brought people together.

The world is quieter without his music, his jokes, and his presence—but the pieces of him he shared will continue to live on in the people who loved him.

Funeral Services for John will be held Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 5pm at the Blackburn Vernal Mortuary with a viewing starting at 4pm prior to service at the Mortuary.