Robert Johnson Obituary

Robert C. Johnson, MD

Robert C. Johnson, MD age 92 of Sausalito, CA (born in Minneapolis, MN) passed away peacefully in his home on Tuesday, May 26. Preceded in death by parents, Ruth & Carl; brothers Roger Johnson and Albert Johansson (Ingrid) from Sweden; and lifelong friends Tom Defore and John Luckow. He will be deeply missed by his niece, Cathy Carlson; nephews Doug (Cheryl) and Tom (Jill); close longtime friend Joan R. Palmer of Healdsburg, CA; sister-in-law Beverly Johnson; and many special friends from the Bay Area and Minneapolis

Robert was born and raised in Minneapolis and graduated from Patrick Henry High School in 1945. Following graduation he joined the Navy and later the Army Air Corp. After his military service, he graduated from optometry school in Chicago in 1951 and practiced optometry until 1956 when he enrolled in Medical School at the University of Minnesota. Robert earned his Doctor of Medicine in 1962 followed by an internship at Minneapolis General Hospital and an ophthalmology residency at the University of Minnesota. Robert moved to San Francisco in 1968 and joined Dr. Arthur Jampolsky in private practice where he became a widely admired and respected eye surgeon. He continued in private practice until his retirement in 1997 when his practice transitioned to Pacific Eye Associates. Robert was a Senior Jampolsky Fellow working with the Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute. Robert was a major contributor to the California Pacific Medical Center Ophthalmology teaching program and was a pillar of the Ophthalmology Department.

Robert had a great sense of humor; his presence would light up a room. He was loving and loyal to his family and friends; his life is an inspiration to both. Robert was loved and respected by his patients and colleagues; he deeply cared for all. Robert balanced his professional activities with skiing, rowing, cycling, hiking, tennis and golf. Robert also had a passion for reading and a great appreciation for fine food and wine. Roberts family would like to thank everyone who gave him such wonderful care, especially Maraia and caregivers from North Bay Home Care.

A celebration of Robert's life will be held at a later date. Memorials are preferred to the University of Minnesota Foundation, Department of Ophthalmology.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Jun. 5 to Jun. 14, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Johnson

10 Entries

Susan Hays

January 1, 2021

I worked for Dr Johnson for 6 years.I stayed with the practice until he retired in 1997. We had an excellent working environment

Gunilla Hall, Marita Johansson Modigh, and cousin David Andersson

Planted Trees

roger Humphry

June 29, 2020

Bob was so friendly and kind to me during my Fellowship at Smith Kettlewell in 1986. His enthusiasm ( and superb fitness) was an inspiration. A wonderful person.

scott simontacchi

June 25, 2020

love you dr. j. Scott

Michael M. Walsh

June 19, 2020

I was introduced to Dr. Johnson in 1991 after suffering a head injury at work. At the time, I was only one third of the way through my planned 30 year with four small children to support. Miraculously, "Bob" said he would perform my much needed surgery; but, with a best case scenario of 80% return of my normal vision and a possible return to work. Once Bob had performed his magic, my vision was restored to 96% of normal, I was able to return to work without restrictions, raise four fantastic children and retire after 30 years in the San Francisco Fire Department! I Thank God everyday for bringing Dr. Johnson into our lives and all he did for myself and my family!!
R.I.P. Dr. Robert Johnson
Very Sincerely, Michael M. Walsh
Retired S.F.F.D.
Rescue Squad #2

Jennie Chevalier

June 17, 2020

Bob was such a lovely person and neighbor. I met years ago as he was climbing all the stairs to and from his home in Sausalito. He was still doing so at 90. Hed rather do that than take his elevator. He was always cheerful and friendly with a beautiful smile.

Marita Johansson Modigh

June 15, 2020

I met uncle Robert for the first time 1989 in Sweden together with his brothers Roger and Albert (my father). Following year me and my parents visited Robert in San Francisco, many happy memories from that time. I am so thankful I could see him again in 2017 together with my nephew Kristian Hall (Los Angeles) who had a frequent and warm contact with his great uncle Bob. I will miss him, all my love

Gunilla Hall

June 12, 2020

June, 12
I remember very well when I met uncle Robert for the first time in Sweden 1989, and it was so nice to meet him and brother Roger with his wife Beverly. I am so grateful for all other meetings we had in San Francisco throughout the years.

Gunilla Hall, Sweden

June 7, 2020

My family were patients of Dr. Johnson many many years ago. Great great doctor. Condolences to Dr. Johnsons family. Thank you, Dr. Johnson for the care you gave us. Grateful.

Joel Porter, MD

June 6, 2020

Bob Johnson was such a wonderful full-of-life guy. Always up-beat, friendly,
a smile on his face, terrific to be with in any setting, be it social, professional, academic, or clinical. He will be sorely missed by me and many others. R.I.P. My deepest sympathies to his other friends and family.

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