Richard Johnson
Richard passed away suddenly at his home in Argusville, ND on January 14, 2017. Richard was born February 15, 1949 to Hjalmer and Mae (Sanderson) Johnson in Fargo, ND.
Richard graduated from Fargo North High School in 1967. He then enlisted in the Navy. He was a Naval diver and welder in the Navy Seabees 1967-1971. He did two tours of duty in Vietnam. During this time he married his first wife, Linda Beck. They later divorced but always remained great friends.
After returning to civilian life he attended NDSU, before transferring over to Concordia College. He graduated with a B.A. Degree in Religion, and then attended the State School of Science in Wahpeton, ND, becoming a Licensed Certified Plumber. He also attended Goddard College in Vermont, in pursuit of his love of the Arts.
He married the love of his life, Donna Joy Knudtson in 1979 and started his family. They had three children, January Joy, Joshua and Josiah.
Over the years he worked in many different trades and arts. He worked for the Steele County Council on Aging in Finley ND, assisting the elderly in programs to enhance their lives. He worked at United Tribes in Bismarck, helping young Native Americans pursue their education and assisted in treatment programs for those affected by addiction. He worked for Burlington Northern Railroad. He had Realtor license and also did some telemarketing during GW Bush Campaign. He was a Master Mason and Member of the VFW. Richard's true passion was being an Artisan, he loved to paint, draw, work with wood, wood carving, and creative writing.
Richard was a good decent man, who loved God, Country and family. Rick had a great love for animals. His dog Millie was his best friend and she never left his side. He enjoyed horse racing, especially when he got lucky. He was also a bit of a “Prankster.” He loved eating ice cream with his grandson, Jackson, and spending time with family and visiting with friends.
Richard is survived by his wife Donna “Joy” of Argusville, ND; his daughter, January Johnson of Fargo; his sons, Joshua Johnson and Josiah Johnson and grandson Jackson of Argusville ND; his brother Lynn (Ramona) Johnson of West Fargo; a sister, Heidi Johnson of Audubon, MN, and his beloved dog “Millie”. He was preceded in death by his parents.
His love and wonderful sense of humor will be missed by all.
I will miss our political and philosophical talks we have every year during the holidays. Even though we disagreed on a lot of pthings, we did not take it personally and we remained friends for over a half century. Rest In Peace Ricardo!
Josiah and Jackson: So sorry about the loss of your Dad and Grandpa ,thinking of you both with lots of Love and Friendship . ♡♡ Love, Momma T and family