OSU surgeon dies

COLUMBUS, OHIO — Dr. LeRoy Johnson, 90, a renowned equine professor, died Dec. 4.

Dr. LeRoy Johnson

During his career at The Ohio State University, (OSU) he achieved a Mayo Clinic Fellowship in 1950. Johnson edited and published more than 30 medical articles and patented surgical equipment that is used in procedures today.

Clients would bring Thoroughbred racehorses from around the country for Johnson to operate on, trusting his famed talent and skill, campus authorities say. He was a sought-after speaker for the American Veterinary Medical Association and other veterinary organizations.

"He was the best lecturer we had without a doubt," says Dr. Dick Beckett of Findlay, Ohio, a student of Johnson from 1958-1960. "We were scared to death of him. He was firm and straight to the discussion. Once you knew him, there was a lot of respect given to him and from him."

Beckett remained friends with the professor throughout life.

"He was very polished. He taught us about the use of horses in mankind and the wars they were used in," he says.

Johnson retired from OSU as professor emeritus in 1981, after serving as a professor for almost 40 years. He was an accomplished equestrian, private pilot and war historian.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Louise, who passed away one week earlier.