Robert Lee Johnson died in Logan, Utah on April 7, 2023 after living for 101 years. He was a remarkable man who had good health, enjoyed each day, loved his family, shared laughter, was a life-long learner and a voracious reader with an unquenchable curiosity about the world. He went to China with his daughter Jennifer when he was 92 and traveled to India with his daughter Betsy when he was 95. His first trip was to Italy (1944—1945) where he served in the Army Air Corps as a Buck Sergeant during World War II. He never lost his deep commitment and love for his country. After returning from the war, he married Patricia Jane Isgreen in 1946, attended University of Utah and graduated in Political Science in 1948. They lived in Salt Lake City, Utah where they had three children: Alice Kristina, Thomas Lee and Elizabeth Jane.
Bob worked for Kennecott Copper and was a part of the union, participating in contract negotiations. In 1955, Kennecott transferred him to Silver City, New Mexico where he eventually became Safety Director and later Head of Security and Environmental Protection for Chino Mines. Two more children were born in Silver City: Mary Louise and Jennifer Marie. In the 1960’s he was appointed by the NM governor to serve for several years on the NM Board of Education Finance. He enjoyed the trips to Santa Fe and getting to meet new people. In 1984 he retired from Kennecott and enjoyed building a cabin with Patty in Alpine, Arizona. The cabin became a place of beauty for Bob and Patty and the place to gather family. He and Patty loved walking in the mountains and meadows in the early mornings with their dogs. They enjoyed traveling to South American, Korea, Scandinavia, Canada and various spots in the USA. He loved being outdoors, especially fishing, skiing or growing flowers to share with others. After retirement he served as an ombudsman at Ft. Bayard Hospital as well as volunteer work with other various organizations. He also held many positions in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and enjoyed long-lasting friendships. His beloved Patty predeceased him in 2012. He leaves behind his five children: Kristina (Greg) Moody of Albuquerque, Tom (Joan) Johnson of Smithfield, Utah, Betsy (Gerry) Mullen of Silver City, New Mexico, Mary Louise (Doug) LeCheminant of Leander, Texas, Jennifer (Barry) Hubbard of Sandy, Utah. He was grandfather to 17 and great-grandfather to 33. His influence will live on!
Visitation will be Monday, April 17 at 10am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3755 Swan St. Silver City, NM. Funeral services will follow at 11am with Bishop Will Perkins officiating. Concluding service and interment will take place at Fort Bayard National Cemetery with full military honors. Pallbearers are Matt Moody, Andrew and Benjamin Johnson, William Carey, Paul, Jonathan, and Michael Mullen, Phil LeCheminant, Stephen and Brian Hubbard. Honorary pallbearers are all other surviving grandchildren. Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels “Trusted care for the ones you love” ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.