Robert Johnson

Robert (Bob) Lyle Johnson was born May 13, 1941, to Phoebe Irene Miller in San Jose, California. He passed away on June 19, 2025, in Rigby, Idaho, at the age of 84. As a small child, he and his mother lived in Stockton, California. Because of unforeseen circumstances, Bob was placed in the Foster Care System of San Joaquin County. After a variety of placements, Bob was placed in the loving and nurturing home of Jack and Olive Richards of East Stockton when he was eight years old. He remained in their care until he graduated from Franklin High School in 1959.

Following high school, Bob tried out several part-time jobs. From working sheep in Texas to being a lifeguard on the Russian River in Northern California. He even sold women’s shoes and pumped gas.

In 1962, Bob joined the United States Marine Corps Reserve. Following duty, he was assigned to “K” Company 24th Marines, headquartered at Rough and Ready Island in Stockton. He remained with that unit until 1968, when he was honorably discharged, having attained the rank of Staff Sargent.

In 1964, Robert met and married Brenda Edwards from Lodi, California. They had two boys: Kent Newman Johnson, who passed away at a very young age from a brain tumor, and Eric David Johnson, who became a fire Chief for the Woodbridge Fire District. Robert and Brenda would later divorce in 1991.

Bob’s first grandson, Eric II, was born in 1993, and quickly became Bob’s little buddy, whom he spent untold hours dotting upon. Lodi Lake, Whimzies, or chicken nuggets became their favorite daily ritual. Bob loved being with his son and grandson and would spend weekends camping, fishing, and hiking together. They were like the 3 Amigos.

Robert began his life employment in 1965 when he joined Tycore Title and Trust. He remained in the title and escrow industry, attaining several promotions of ever-increasing responsibility until his retirement in 1998.

Bob met JoAnn Madsen Brady through a church dating service. It wasn’t long before they were married on October 8, 1999, in Idaho. Bob moved to Utah, since both were recently retired, the world was their oyster. They spent winters in St. George, and when the heat drove them north, Idaho became a frequent summer getaway.

Bob was an avid walker and voracious reader, as his vast collection of books would testify. They brought him great pleasure. When he wasn’t reading, he was outside working in his gardens or birdwatching. He always included the current pet as a member of the family. Ellie will be lost without him.

Together, JoAnn and Bob would purchase a home, redecorate the interior, and change the landscaping. Over a period of 20 years, they renovated more than 6 homes. It was a labor of love and personal gratification. Special trips to California were made as two more grandsons were added to the Johnson clan.

Bob is survived by his wife JoAnn, son Eric (Cindi), and three grandsons: Eric II (Nicole), Kyle Peter, and Kent Robe