William Robert Johansen

I remember Mr. Johansson very well; he was a wonderful drawing instructor. He certainly helped me earn my BFA in 1974. Post graduation, he directed me to Elaine de Kooning as a mentor. I consider him one of my benefactors.

Bill was an amazing drawing and painting professor. I chose to take classes from him again and again. His knowledge was deep in all aspects of art. I appreciate that he encouraged me to craft canvases from scratch. He was patient, and yet honest, and pushed me when I needed it. He had a wonderful sense of humor.

We were neighbors of Bill, Margaret, Cathi & Chrissy when I was in graduate school. I have many memories of each member of the family & stopped by toi see Bill when I was in Athens, the last time the summer before his passing. He was the best of friends for over 40 years.

I met Bill when he bought his first Yamaha motorcycle from us. I would later run into him on UGA campus where I worked in Undergraudate Admissions. Always a joy to "visit". Before Dad's death in 1981 from complications of Parkinson's Disease, Bill would often ride his bike by and sit on the porch and chat with Daddy. Always remember him as a kind and genteel fellow. May those grieving his absence from their lives be comforted by their sweet memories. God bless you all.
Brenda Elder...

Bill Johansen was always kind and supportive of me, especially when I was a graduate student. I will never forget his consistent and persistent help in reaching out when I needed it most. Always, always funny too! I remember him so fondly. RIP Bill.

Mr. Johansen will be greatly missed. I worked with him at the Lamar Dodd School of Art for 11 years. He was a special person!! Remember that his family will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Bill and I were colleagues at The Lamar Dodd School of Art for almost thirty years. His wit, talent, sensitivity, humor, and loyalty were mainstays of the school and the drawing and painting area which he chaired for many years. He made a positive difference in the lives of his colleagues and his students are always eager to share fond memories of their time with him. Above all he was a people person - a nurturer who always saw the big picture. Condolences to his many friends and family.

So sorry to hear of Bill's passing. I was a colleague of his in the Lamar Dodd School of Art and remember with fondness his sense of humor and his imaginative figure scenes. My condolences to his family including Welynda whom I also knew.

Such a beautiful tribute to your dad. Bill was an amazing mentor and friend to me for many years, I feel blessed to have known him and call him a good friend. He was incredibly uplifting to be around, wise and inspiring, he had the best stories and was forever a dedicated friend. I will miss him beyond measure. Bill had such amazing support from his daughters over the years as he battled cancer, what a gift. Love to you Cathi & Christine, Michelle