Ronald Bert Johanson

Republic, WA

October 17, 1946 - October 27, 2015

Ronald Bert Johanson was born on October 17, 1946 in Seattle, Washington to Bertell and Florence Johanson. He was raised on Bainbridge Island, spending his younger years in Eagledale before moving to Winslow in 1955. After graduating from Bainbridge Island High School in 1965, Rob proudly served in the United States Army from 1965 to 1967 and was stationed in Vietnam as a Radio Operator. When he returned to Bainbridge after an honorable discharge, he resumed working for Baxter Wycoff Company, known as "Creosote". In the late 1960's, he began working as a Carpenter on Bainbridge Island; he often recalled fond memories of working alongside his uncle Art - as well as other Island homebuilders- who taught him the trade. When work slowed down in the mid-1970's, Ron turned to Halverson Towing for a year, working as a deck hand on a tug boat and hauling supplies between Seattle and Southeast Alaska. It was during this time that Ron fell in love with the "Last Frontier". He worked in the construction industry in Alaska from the late 1970s through the 1980s, most notable in the towns of Anchorage, Atqasukm Bethel, and Point Barrow. Ron moved from Bainbridge to Suquamish in 1988. A stroke in 1992 forced him into early retirement. He moved to Republic in 2003, where he lived for 11 years. In 2014, he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and moved to Seabeck, Washington to live with his brother, Keith while receiving treatment at the Seattle VA Hospital. Ron courageously fought his illness for nearly two years before passing away peacefully at the Washington Veterans Home Retsil in Port Orchard.

Ron was a warm and easy-going guy who lived a wonderful legacy and told many colorful stories. As an avid outdoorsman, Ron had a love for hunting, fishing, softball, bowling, RVing, and traveling. He was a proud member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Disabled American Veterans, and the American Legion. Ron leaves many friends who will surely miss him.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents and nephew Edward Johanson, and survived by his older brothers Dennis (Shirley) and Keith (Edna); nephews Raymond (Janice) and Matthew Johanson; thirteen great nephews and nieces; and many cousins. A "Celebration of Life" will be held in Ron's honor on Friday, November 6th, 2015 between 1pm and 3pm at the American Legion, located at 7880 NE Bucklin Hill Rd, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110. Memorial donations may be made to the American Legion Post 172, Disabled American Veterans or the Cancer Society.