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JOHNSON Robert Donald Johnson, age 86, of Slidell, passed on May 3, 2013, at his home in Slidell. Cause of death was Parkinson's disease. He was the son of the late Ruth Grassmeyer Johnson and Walter Eugene Johnson. Robert was born and reared in Akron, Ohio. While Robert played football throughout his school career he also earned his Eagle Scout status as well. He pursued his degrees in Case Institute of Technology in Bera, Ohio, earning his BS degree; Baldwin Wallace College, Oberlain College and the University of Wisconsin, ultimately earning a masters degree in physics and a Ph.D. in physical metallurgy. He served in World War II in the U.S. Navy. He went on to teach at Southern California University. He followed a career in aerospace and during the next 40 years worked for NASA, working directly under Werner Von Braun in Huntsville, Ala.; Northrup Grumman, developing UFO sightings as one component of his duties; and Lockheed Martin Marietta, as part of the development of the external tank in the shuttle program. He also presented scientific research on plastic defamation of metals in Europe and throughout the United States. He was an active member of the American Society of Metals for 40 years. As a NASA honoree in 1988 he was a guest of honor at a reception given by astronauts at Cape Canaveral, Fla. He was escorted to view a missile launch at that time. He has been a two-time Rotarian of the Year in the Slidell Rotary Club, becoming a Paul Harris Fellow in that group, and, in 2010, the Rotary Club of Slidell Scholarship Award was renamed the Robert Johnson Scholarship Award to honor his longtime service to the organization. He enjoyed brief membership in the Krewe de la Boutte Dominique in Slidell. Robert studied jazz under Allen Toussaint, and attended 26 jazz festivals in New Orleans; Carmel, California; Italy; and Germany. Dr. Johnson is survived by his wife, Boni Johnson of Slidell; his brother, Frank Johnson of Charlotte, N.C.; and his children, Robyn Markie of California; Daniel S. Johnson of Colorado; Kimberly Armstrong of Indiana; and Michele Olsen, Tennessee; two grandsons and two great-grandsons. He was preceded in death by his brother, Harry Johnson of Denver, Colrado. Robert has donated his remains to Tulane Medical School for scientific research. A memorial service in his honor will be held on Thursday, May 16 from 5 to 7 p.m. at HONAKER FUNERAL HOME, 1751 GAUSE BLVD WEST, in Slidell. Robert requests that any memorials kindly be sent to Hospice who so lovingly sustained his wife, Boni, and himself. Please visit www.honakerforestlawn.com to sign guestbook. Arrangements by Honaker Funeral Home, Inc., Slidell, LA.
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Dear Boni,
Bob was a man of high intellect and talent, who accomplished so much during his life. But, as we all know, he was so much more than even his highest career accomplishments. I always admired Bob not only for his achievements, but for who he was. As a Rotarian, he gave so much back to the community. As a friend, he taught me the meaning of gentleness, kindness, friendliness, humility, and service above self. As you know, I considered Bob a friend, and I know that I was also special to him.
My prayers are for Bob, and for you. May you experience God's peace, as you reflect upon the wonderful years you two had together - not to mention all those sailing trips to the BVIs.
God bless,
Bobby Ohler with love from Sue
Bobby Ohler
May 14, 2013
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Honaker Funeral Home, Inc. - Slidell1751 Gause Boulevard W P.O. Box 6087, Slidell, LA 70460
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