BOMBER MEMORIAL

KENNETH ALLEN "KENNY"/"KEN" JOHNSON ~ Class of 1965
January 27, 1947 - December 18, 2006

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Kenny Johnson passed away with his wife and family by his side on December 18, 2006 after a short, brave battle with cancer.

He was born in Walla Walla on January 27, 1947 and grew up in Richland, where he graduated with the Class of 1965 from Richland's Columbia High School. After graduating Ken served in the Marine Corp Reserve and attended Columbia Basin College where he studied welding and metallurgy. Ken then went to work for Nortech making transducers, and soon began his career as a Quality Assurance Engineer, working throughout the western United States. Ken eventually returned to Richland and started his own consulting business which led him to his final employment with Duratek as an engineer.

Ken met and married his soul mate, Lori, in July 1992. Ken and Lori loved to travel. Special trips included traveling with friends to Alaska and Mexico. Ken enjoyed and valued the time he was able to spend with his children.

He enjoyed a variety of activities especially when they involved being outdoors. Some of his favorite activities were mountain climbing, gardening, golfing and most recently kayaking with Lori. He also enjoyed playing pool and was considered by many to be very good at it.

Ken had a large contingent of friends and family which was evidenced by the recent reunion at the Hampton Inn where more than 150 friends and family had an opportunity to express their appreciation for the difference he made in their lives. Ken was loved and respected by all who knew him.

He leaves behind daughters: Michelle Johnson Gire (Dan), Angela Johnson, Allison Johnson and Nikki Johnson Goodlander; son, Marcus Johnson. He also leaves behind four grandchildren: Jessa, Jaylynn, Andy and Malayla; brothers: Rick Johnson (Judy) and Gary Johnson ('67) (Linda); several nieces and nephews; and his ex-wife, Penny Zbyszewski Williams ('66).

Ken is preceded in death by his father, Delbert Johnson; his mother, Doris Johnson; and his son, Jeremiah Johnson.

Lori and her family extend special thanks to his Duratek family for all their love and support. Warm and loving thanks to his close friends and special thanks to Ken’s best friend, Gary Webb ('64).

Funeral services were held at 1:00pm Friday, December 22, 2006 at Einan’s Funeral Home in Richland. Viewing was held from 6pm-8pm on Thursday, December 21, 2006.

Donations may be to Tri Cities Hospice, 2108 W. Entiat, Kennewick, WA 99336.

Express your thoughts and memories in the Einan's online guest book.



Bomber Memorial put together by Maren SMYTH ('63 and '64) and edited by Shirley COLLINGS Haskins ('66).