Richard Andrew Johnson

Richard Andrew Johnson passed away peacefully on January 12, 2026, at the age of 62. He was born on July 26, 1963, in Port Angeles, WA to Anders Walter and Gladys Blanche Johnson. Rich was a devoted husband to his wife, Julie Reynolds Johnson of 29 years, and loving father to his sons, Brent and Ryan.

Rich grew up on the family farm in Joyce, WA as one of six children, an upbringing that shaped his strong work ethic and generous spirit. He graduated from Crescent High School in 1981, went on to earn an Associate of Science in Pre-Engineering from Peninsula College in 1983 and later received a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Washington in 1985, reflecting his lifelong dedication to learning. Rich went on to build a successful career at The Boeing Company for 40 years. He spent a majority of these years in the Environmental Control Systems team where he was a technical lead for multiple areas before becoming a senior manager. Known for his kindness, willingness to teach, and readiness to help, Rich was deeply respected for his judgement and technical expertise, not only within Boeing, but also among peers at other aircraft manufacturers and aviation regulators. In recognition of his incredible knowledge and insight, in 2006 he was selected as Safety and Airworthiness Chief Engineer for Airplane Systems, a role he filled for his last 19 years. His work was marked by precision, integrity and a strong sense of responsibility. Rich retired in February of 2025. Rich was a lifelong singer, and he and Julie met in 1995 while singing in a community choir. They married a year later, and welcomed their sons, Brent in 1999 and Ryan in 2000. Rich was a wonderful Dad, loved watching them grow, and was so proud of them. He supported them in sports -- soccer, basketball, LL baseball, cross country, and tennis, and in music – piano and trumpet lessons, concert, jazz and pep bands, and Seattle Children’s Chorus. He was an assistant leader in Cub and Boy Scouts – teaching citizenship, service, hiking and camping. Richard was happy and proud to celebrate their college graduations, Brent from Pacific Lutheran University and Ryan from Montana State University.

Music was one of Rich’s greatest joys. He sang with the Boeing Employees Concert Choir, the Norwegian Male Chorus of Seattle, the Trinity Lutheran Church Choir, played recorder, and played trombone with the Trinity Brass, and the King’s Players. Rich was a skilled handyman – carpentry, plumbing, lighting, and general problem-solving. He will be remembered for helping neighbors, friends and church whenever there was a need. And Rich was a skilled baker – cakes, rhubarb pastry, and his specialty – bread. He was famous for his homemade rolls, cardamom bread, and Swedish rye bread.

Rich loved gardening, reading, watching sports, traveling, and camping with his family. He also loved playing board and card games, and teaching them to others – cribbage, pinochle, bridge – always a kind and patient teacher, with a spirit of fun competition and a warm sense of humor.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Gladys Johnson, and his brother, Robert Johnson. He is survived by his wife, Julie Johnson, and sons, Brent and Ryan Johnson, his siblings Erik Johnson (Christine), Carol Johnson, Doug Johnson (Stepheena), sister-in-law Robyn Johnson, Dave Johnson (Colleen), many nephews, nieces, and grand nieces/nephews.

A memorial service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, 6215 196th St SW, Lynnwood, WA on May 2nd at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the music program at Trinity Lutheran Church Lynnwood, or the Norwegian Male Chorus of Seattle, or the Virginia Mason Pancreaticobiliary Cancer Fund.