Richard Arlen Johnson Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Richard Arlen Johnson 1937-2017 Richard Arlen Johnson passed away at his home on March 22, 2017. Richard was born February 2, 1937 in Midvale, Utah to Byron Tanner Johnson and Mary Wallgren Johnson. Richard is survived by his wife Gloria Olivia West, brothers Byron Jesse Johnson Jr. (Sharyl) and Ronald Lynn Johnson (Vicki Jo), sister Connie Johnson Tilson (Glen). Richard has three children; David Arlen Johnson (Melanie), Tammy Jean Johnson Rich (Terry) and Marissa Graham May Johnson. Richard has several grandchildren; Brandi, Kortni, Whitney (Aaron) and Jessi (Trevor) and great grandchildren; Jaydon, Gavyn, Danae, Dayton, Dentley, Killian and Demetria. Richard was married to Julia Cabibi Johnson for 22 years. They have two children, David and Tammy whom they loved very much. Richard was their hero. Richard was married to Glenda Graham May for 24 years and he adopted her daughter Marissa. Glenda died after a long battle with cancer. Richard later married Gloria Olivia West. They were married September 9, 2006. Gloria has two daughters, Rachel and Rebecca. They had a great love for Richard. Gloria and Richard enjoyed their time together. Richard lived a rich, full life, he was involved in many things. Life was an adventure; hunting, fishing, dancing, photography, traveling to Alaska, African bead collector and trader, expert in firearms and knives, collector of many artifacts. He was a part of the Mountain Men in Utah and went to Rendezvous for over 60 years. He was a Mountain Man in every aspect and his name was “grizz” after the grizzly bear. His knowledge about guns, reloading, black powder guns, knives, tomahawks and hunting was immeasurable. Richard was a resource to hundreds of men that sought his knowledge. He was a life-long member of the NRA and the Eagles Lodge. He was a caring, loving husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend. He was a man of his word. Richard worked for Kennecott Copper for 30 years as a Signal Maintainer he was also a welder for several years. He also held many positions in the L.D.S. Church, his favorite being scouting. He retired to care for his wife Glenda while she battled cancer. Richard will be missed on this earth. His kind spirit, helping hands and steady voice gave great peace to many. Richard was one of a kind, a ‘man for all seasons’. His example and energy will live always in the hearts of those that loved him and knew him well. Our lives have been blessed and enriched greatly to know Richard Arlen Johnson. Some of Richard’s teaching experiences include: 1954 – 1960 Military Instructor for 6 years in an engineering company teaching two classes a week in small arms and ammunition, map reading and compass use, military demolitions and high explosives and supply procedures. 1965 – 1971 On the job instructor of five men, teaching apprenticeship training in signal maintenance and safety in electrical trade. 1960 – 1984 Instructor in gun safety and target shooting 1970 – 1986 Knife collection and exhibition in Jordan School District schools. 1972 – 1986 Lectures and black powder rifle use and effect of gun powder on man and his environment. Given by appointment in Jordan School District schools. 1984 – 1985 Volunteer reading and math coach at 5th grade level at Mount View Elementary 2 to 3 times a week to migrant students and those needing one on one assistance. He also taught special classes for Boy Scout church groups on knives, guns and gun safety and classes to young women on simple automobile maintenance. Some of his talents and experiences include: Electrician Expert Rifleman Knife expert Freelance Photographer Mechanic Hunter Fisherman Water color painting Drafting and Blueprints Outdoor & Camping Skills Traveled in Western U.S. including Alaska and Western Canada “The Oak Tree” A message of encouragement A mighty wind blew night and day. It stole the oak tree’s leaves away, Then snapped its boughs and pulled its bark until the oak was tired and stark. But still the oak tree held its ground while other trees fell all around. The weary wind gave up and spoke, “How can you still be standing, Oak?” The oak tree said, “I know that you can break each branch of mine in two, Carry every leaf away, shake my limbs, and make me sway. But I have roots stretched in the earth, growing stronger since my birth. You’ll never touch them, for you see, they are the deepest part of me. Until today, I wasn’t sure of just how much I could endure. But now I’ve found, with thanks to you, I’m stronger than I ever knew.” Richard also had a few poems that he loved about giving thanks: A true friend laughs at your stories even when they’re not so good, and sympathizes with your troubles even when they’re not so bad. Irish Proverb The greatest good you can do for another is not just to share riches but to reveal to him his own. Benjamin Disraeli Friendship that flows from the heart cannot be frozen by adversity, as the water that flows from the spring cannot congeal in winter. James Fenimore Cooper How far that little candle throws his beams! So shines a good deed in a weary world. William Shakespeare Words from Family: My father taught me the ways of the outdoors and how to respect life. He taught me to look for the best in people. He enjoyed life to its fullest. He had vast knowledge and experience. He loved God and all His creations. David Johnson You shaped me into the person I am today. You were such a great father and friend. You have given me so many memories. I love you so much! Tammy Rich (Johnson) I love you so much grandpa. You will always be in my heart and on my mind. Thank you for everything you did for me. Love Kortni Patrick (Rich) We love you so much and appreciate everything you’ve done for us. We will miss you greatly. Love Rebecca and Rachel Memorial services will be held at: Parkway 4th Ward 3407 W 9625 S, South Jordan April 1, 2017 10:00 am – 11:00 am receiving line 11:00 am – 12:30 pm memorial service Lunch to follow Color Guard to follow Memorial out on the lawn.

Richard Arlen Johnson

February 2, 1937 - March 22, 2017