John Richard Johnson

Greenleaf, Idaho - John Richard Johnson, born the son of Scandinavian immigrants in Spokane, WA, died peacefully at home in Greenleaf, ID, on December 13, 2024, due to complications of Lewy Body Dementia. He was 85.

Surviving John are his loving wife of 63 years, Ruthellen June Johnson, daughter Rene' (Tom), daughter Linda (Fred), daughter Lori (Dale), son Craig (Kristina), 16 grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, sister Jeannie, sister Carol (Tim), and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his Norwegian father, John Gelmer Johnson; Swedish mother, Jennie Evelina Forsberg; half-brother, Ralph Anderson; half-sisters, Sonja Domsted and Helen White; and nephew, Billy White.

John grew up in Spokane, WA, went to college at George Fox College, met and married his wife in Newberg, OR, began his teaching career at Northwest Christian School in Spokane, WA, obtained his masters degree from Oregon State University in Corvalis, OR, then moved to Idaho where he dedicated his life to teaching high school and middle school level math and sciences at Greenleaf Friends Academy and Nampa West Junior High. He also coached high school football a number of years after playing himself in high school and in college. He supplemented his teaching income by working for a local surveyor and managing various delivery routes. In later years, he bought and managed several rental properties.

When not teaching, John enjoyed exploring and appreciating God's natural wonders through family road trips, camping, hiking, fishing, and bird watching. He also enjoyed attending air shows, playing golf, volunteering at the Boise Open, playing chess and other games, completing crossword puzzles, and reading.

His aptitude and love for teaching extended to his children and grandchildren, whom he taught to work hard, appreciate the value of a dollar, enjoy classical music, drive a manual transmission, and how to play various games including chess, Hearts and 42. As a devoted family man, many hours were spent and many miles put on the car traversing the country in support of events and activities in his children's and grandchildren's lives.

Unfortunately, John's enjoyment of later life was diminished by the development of Lewy Body Dementia. He was cared for primarily at home by his wife, who is grateful for assistance received from professional caregivers and loving neighbors. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association at http://www.lbda.org.

No formal services will be held at this time although a family remembrance get together will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of All Valley Cremation, 1538 11th Ave N, Nampa, Idaho 83687.