Rodney William Johnson

Rodney William Johnson was born in the small town of Wausa, Nebraska. He grew up on a farm without indoor plumbing and attended a one-room country schoolhouse. At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, he majored in agriculture and went on to earn a law degree. The majority of his career was spent as an international development lawyer for USAID, which took him to 72 countries around the world.
Rod was known for his love of family and friends, and that love was reciprocated. They thought Rod took a genuine interest in everything and everyone of all ages, and was one of the world's best conversationalists. He had a gift for connecting with each person where they were engaging them with new ideas and discussion about almost every subject. He was an excellent listener and deep thinker, which made him a counselor both in his profession and in his personal life. In retirement, Rod lived to experience the outdoors which he dreamed about as a young boy— fishing, kayaking and RV camping. During inclement weather he worked on his music, playing guitar and banjo, singing campfire and cowboy songs, and pursuing his woodworking projects.
Rod was predeceased by his first wife, Kay Rotherham Johnson. He is survived by his wife, Kim Finan; his brother, Terry Johnson; his daughters and sons-in-law, Elizabeth and Juan Font, and Katherine Johnson and Ryan Bhandari; and his grandchildren: Antonio and Nico Font, and Arlo and Ivy Bhandari. His extended family included cherished relationships with his Finan and Johnson nieces and nephews.
Rod passed away suddenly but peacefully in his sleep on August 6, 2025. Although his passing leaves a devastating absence, his loved ones take comfort in the treasured memories of his great wit and good humor, lifelong intellectual curiosity, and infectious spirit. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sierra Club. Service private.