Obituary of Donald R. Johnson

Donald R. Johnson born on December 27, 1938 in Bremerton, WA, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, June 20, 2010 in Lakewood, WA. He was preceded in death by his parents Reuben Johnson and Alice Ringness Stevens. Don is survived by his wife Judy Sevdy Johnson, two daughters Cynthia Johnson Vaughn and Terri Johnson Parris, and his “adopted son” Robert Bennett (Cindy); step-children Debbie Peay (Robert), Debbie Watson (Steve), Dan Maurin and Nick Maurin (Tina); grandchildren Matthew Hogge, Breanne Hogge; step-grandchildren Sarah Holman (Michael), Amanda McCluskey, Jennifer McCluskey, Adam Peay, and several great grandchildren; sister Delores Helstrom (Don), and two nieces Debbie Helstrom Ferrington (Jim) and Tina Helstrom Wilson (Jeff). Don graduated from North Kitsap High School in 1957 then served honorably in the United States Air Force. Don resided in Nashville, Tennessee for 35 years and retired in 2001 from Air Conditioning Service, Inc. Don later returned to Washington and married Judy Sevdy in December of 2002. Don’s legacy includes being a wonderful husband, father, loving family man and friend. He was a dedicated worker and mentor too many people throughout the years. He loved riding his Gold Wing motorcycle, fishing, playing golf, and sharing his handyman talents with others. He touched every heart he met and was a gentle soul who also loved to laugh. Even though Don was a quiet man --the message he exuded spoke volumes. He was selfless, caring, respectful, loyal, and compassionate, and to the very end he was filled with amazing strength and courage. WE LOVE HIM and WE WILL MISS HIM! THE FAMILY WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE STAFF AT FRANCISCAN HOSPICE IN UNIVERSITY PLACE FOR PROVIDING SUCH LOVING CARE AND ASSISTANCE THROUGHOUT THIS DIFFICULT TIME......THANK YOU ALL! To celebrate his life, a memorial service will be held on Wednesday, June 23, 2010, at 2:00pm at Lakewood Chapel, located at 4604 108th St. SW, Lakewood WA. Donations may be made in memory of Donald R. Johnson to Franciscan Foundation, P.O. Box 1502, Tacoma, WA 98401-1502, or Cancer Research Foundation 1001 State St. Erie, PA 16501 Please sign the online guestbook and leave a special message for Don and the family.