RICHARD JOHNSON

Wasilla resident Richard Dean Johnson, 61, died Nov. 18, 2001, at Providence Alaska Medical Center, of a massive stroke.

A memorial service was held at 1 p.m. Saturday at First Presbyterian Church of Wasilla, with the Rev. Henry Woodall officiating. A graveside service and interment of ashes were at Wasilla Aurora Cemetery, followed by an American Legion service at American Legion Post 35, in Wasilla.

Honorary pallbearers were Dave Webster, Matt Matthews, Wayne Cherry and Lou McManus.

Mr. Johnson was born Dec. 7, 1939, in Seattle. He received his general equivalency diploma and served in the U.S. Air Force from May 1957 to June 1977.

He came to Alaska in January 1973. From November 1980 to January 1984, he was employed as a service manager for Penney & Jensen Mobile Homes, and from 1984 to 1991 he was the manager of American Legion Post 35. He retired from the USAF in 1977.

He was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Wasilla; a life member of American Legion Post 9; an honorary life member of American Legion Post 35; and a member of Sons of the American Legion, Squadron 35. He had received numerous honorary awards from the American Legion.

Mr. Johnson's hobbies and special interests were cribbage, darts and pool. He was a wealth of information for veterans in need.

His family said: "He was a loving husband, father and grandfather who took great pleasure in spending time with them. He was a very kind, caring person who was happiest when he had his family gathered around him. He loved going to his son's and grandson's baseball and hockey games. He also enjoyed spending time with his American Legion family and friends. He will be missed by his family and friends.

Survivors are his wife, Ruth Johnson; son, Wayne Johnson and his wife, Lisa; daughter, Kathy Marshall and her husband, Chris; sons, Ryan, Michael and Jacob Johnson; brother, Robert Johnson of Seattle: granddaughter, Jessica Johnson; and grandsons, Christopher, Patrick and Eric.

He was preceded in death by his son, Timothy Johnson.

In lieu of sending flowers, please make all donations to the family.

Arrangements were made by Valley Funeral Home & Crematory.