Richard Johnson, Beloved Outdoorsman, Passes Away at 92
URGENT UPDATE: Richard “Dick” Johnson, a cherished member of the Randle, Washington community, has passed away at the age of 92. He died peacefully on August 6, 2025, at Providence Hospital in Centralia, Washington, leaving behind a legacy of love for the outdoors and a commitment to family.
Born on July 21, 1933, in Tacoma, Washington, Johnson was known for his adventurous spirit and tireless work ethic. He married Bobbie Belcher in 2003, having shared a loving partnership since 1988. Together, they nurtured a tree farm that became a sanctuary for their cherished moments.
Johnson’s family includes his wife, Bobbie, his son, Timothy Johnson of Onalaska, WA, stepdaughter Jennifer Mullins of Chehalis, WA, and two grandchildren, Kayla and Kylea Johnson. He was preceded in death by his parents and several siblings, as well as his son Jeremy and daughter Karla.
A dedicated forestry professional, Johnson served with the U.S. Forest Service in Randle from 1966 until his retirement in 1994. His passion for the forest and the friendships he forged during those years were central to his life. He studied forestry at both the University of Washington and Oregon State University, underlining his commitment to the land he loved.
In addition to his forestry career, Johnson proudly served two years in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany, and was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed hunting elk and deer, frequently sharing stories from his adventures, particularly at elk camp and during trips to Wyoming. His love for nature extended to climbing iconic mountains, including Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helens before its eruption in 1980.
Johnson’s varied career also included driving log and chip trucks, working at a local ski resort to provide free skiing opportunities for his children, and even beekeeping, sending his bees to local farms for pollination. His commitment to hard work and family was evident in everything he did.
A celebration of Johnson’s life is scheduled for September 20, 2025, at noon, at their beloved tree farm on Peters Road in Randle, WA. Friends and family are invited to gather for a potluck in honor of a man whose adventurous spirit, dedication, and love for nature will be profoundly missed.
Johnson’s passing marks the end of an era in his community, but his legacy will live on through the stories shared by those who loved him. His impact on friends and family is immeasurable, and he will be remembered for his unwavering spirit and devotion to the great outdoors.
