Richard Dale Johnson

Richard Dale Johnson, 90, of Littleton, Colorado, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025. A celebration of life service will take place at a time and place to be announced soon.

Richard was born, along with his twin brother, Robert, on January 6, 1935, in Duluth, Minnesota. Their mother, Mabel Johnson, became a widow when the boys were just three years old. She raised them with the support of government programs, extended family, First Presbyterian Church, and organizations such as the Duluth Fatherless Boys Association, which sent them to YMCA Camp Miller on Sturgeon Lake in Minnesota. Richard graduated from Duluth Central High School in 1953.

Two days after his 17th birthday-on Monday, January 8, 1952-he walked to the nearby recruiting station and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. Because he was not yet 18, the Navy required his mother's permission, which she granted after his high school graduation. Soon after, the Korean War ended, and Richard became a reservist. He remained in the Naval Reserve until his retirement as a Chief Petty Officer in 1985, forming many lifelong friendships during his years of service.

In 1957, Richard married his first wife, Katherine Gibbs. Together, they raised their three children-Linda, Steven, and Peter-in Golden, Colorado, and provided a loving and happy home.

In October 1958, Richard began a civilian career in elevator construction and maintenance that spanned nearly four decades, until his retirement in 1997. He was an active member of the International Union of Elevator Constructors and served for many years as an instructor in the National Elevator Industry Educational Program. His career was filled with camaraderie and lasting friendships.

Richard and Carolyn met at Trinity Methodist Church and delighted in sharing the same birthdate-something they always considered more than coincidence. They were later married on their birthday, January 6, 1991. Having the same birthday and anniversary guaranteed he would never forget their special day. Carolyn was his devoted companion and travel partner. Together, they explored the world, especially by cruise ship. Richard often said he had visited all seven continents-many of them by sea.

He dedicated time and energy to numerous volunteer activities, including Trinity Methodist Church, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Chatfield Reservoir, Rocky Mountain Navy, the All Veterans Honor Guard at Fort Logan, and the Colorado Mountain Club. One of the most meaningful experiences for them both was assisting in the recovery efforts after the devastating tornado in Greensburg, Kansas, on May 4, 2007. Richard enjoyed a rich and fulfilling retirement filled with travel, family, friends, and volunteer work.

In recent years, Carolyn was Richard's patient and loving caregiver as he faced the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.

Richard is survived by his wife, Carolyn; his children Linda Filler (Phil), Steven Johnson (Carolyn), Peter Johnson, Patty Gallegos (Donald), and William Leach; his grandchildren Nicole Filler, Dillon Johnson, Mattison Houser (Sam), Hunter Johnson (Maria), and Preston Gallegos (Megan); and his great-grandchildren Parker Houser, Willa Houser, and Evelyn Gallegos.

He will be remembered for his generosity, sense of humor, and lifelong spirit of service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Denver Rescue Mission.