July 8, 1942 – November 19, 2025
Johnnie Arthur Vierling, born July 8, 1942, in Okmulgee, peacefully passed away on November 19, 2025.
Johnnie graduated from Okmulgee High School in 1960, where he was a member of the Slow Pokes Club. He remained connected to his roots throughout his life, maintaining active involvement with the Okmulgee alumni community for 65 years, cherishing lifelong friendships and reunions.
He went on to earn his degree in printing and lithography from OSU Tech in Okmulgee, a skillset that shaped the early part of his professional life.
On June 1, 1962, Johnnie married the love of his life, Hazel “Lu” Lucille Strome, and together they moved to Caney, Kansas, where he began working for Kopco, Inc. (Printing Services) as Production Manager. While working at Kopco, Johnnie joined the Army National Guard Reserves in 1966.
Following his time at Kopco, he went on to work for the U.S. Postal Service and later opened Johnnie’s Archery Shop in Caney, Kansas. During his time in Caney, he also volunteered with the Boy Scouts, serving as an Explorer Scouts Troop Leader.
In 1975, Johnnie and Lu returned to Oklahoma, where they combined their efforts into a family-owned business in Checotah, establishing a country general store and propane delivery service – efforts that became a meaningful part of the community they all loved.
Johnnie continued his Army National Guard service duties in Kansas until 1979, ultimately achieving the rank of First Sergeant.
Throughout Johnnie’s career, he worked for Metropolitan Life Insurance; UPS, achieving a position in Loss Prevention; and Pitney Bowes, where he served as Regional Sales Manager.
Johnnie loved the neighborhood where he and Lu called home. He was always the first to greet new neighbors and make them feel welcome. He served as President of the Sycamore Bay HOA for 20 years, dedicating countless hours to improving and maintaining the lake community he cared so deeply about.
His favorite pastimes included woodworking and electrical work, hobbies that allowed him to create and be the fix-it man for others. He loved playing card and dice games with family and friends, and he was always ready to open his tiki bar to anyone who wanted to stop by for a visit. Johnnie was known for telling talltales and funny stories that could make anyone laugh, and he enjoyed going to the golf course with the guys.
Johnnie was an active member of both the American Legion and the Elks Lodge for 58 years. He was also a past member of the Shriners and the Masonic Lodge, organizations that reflected his lifelong commitment to service, community, and fellowship.
He is survived by his daughter, Jill Vierling- Adams, and her husband, Karter Adams; and his godchildren, Hilary Cole of Moore and Jonathan Rice of Franklin, Ind., along with many cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Hazel Lucille Vierling (Strome); his parents, Johnnie Addison Vierling and Maudie Cleo Vierling (Powell); and one brother, Gary Kent Vierling.
Johnnie will be deeply missed by all who knew him and by those who carry his memory in their hearts.
Arrangements were entrusted to Gary Kelley’s Add’Vantage Funeral & Cremation Service of Tulsa.
A celebration of life is to be announced.
