Ralph T. Johnsen

Loved his Lord and family, WWII Navy veteran, carpenter

Ralph Theodore Johnsen, 91, went home to be with his Lord on Feb. 5, 2018, surrounded by loved ones, in his daughter Grace's home. He was born July 10, 1926 on Staten Island, N.Y., and was a lifelong resident. Ralph was preceded in death by his wife of 45 years, June Lillian Johnsen (Johnson), and siblings, Stanley Johnsen, Herbert Johnsen, and Evelyn Fuller. He is survived by three daughters, Claire Sharrett (George), Barbara Kiedrowski (Henry), and Grace Tjornhom (Erik), and one son, Roger Johnsen (Carolyn). Ralph is also survived by 10 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Ralph's two passions in life were his love for his Lord and his love for his family. As such he was a longtime member of Salem Evangelical Free Church, where he served as a trustee, financial secretary, and choir member. Recently he had been attending Bethany Lutheran Brethren Church.

He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren by going out for dinner or to Egger's for a treat, having them for a sleep-over and making the "Blue Plate Special" for breakfast, and playing games where wins had to be won fairly. He greatly enjoyed the arrival of the next generation of little ones.

Ralph was drafted into the Navy during World War II immediately upon graduation from Port Richmond H.S. He attained the rank of seaman, second class, before being honorably discharged on Aug. 24, 1946.

Ralph was employed as a carpenter/ contractor, learning his craft from his father. He worked with his father (Sten Johnsen) for many years before eventually having his own business. He put his best effort into everything he did so the outcome would be the best it could be.

Visitation will be at Harmon Funeral Home on Friday, Feb. 9, 2018 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. A funeral service will take place in Bethany Lutheran Brethren Church on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018 at 10 a.m. Burial will follow at Moravian Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations to University Hospice, SIUH Foundation in Ralph's memory would be appreciated.

Harmon Funeral Home

571 Forest Ave.

Staten Island, NY 10310

(718) 442-5056