A Life Etched in Dedication: Remembering Robert W. "Bob" Johnson

When we talk about a life well-lived, a tapestry woven with purpose and quiet strength, it’s hard not to think of Robert W. “Bob” Johnson. Born in the midst of World War II, on a warm July day in Portland back in 1944, Bob’s journey, one could say, was destined to be one of unwavering commitment—first to his country, then to his family, and always, truly, to his community. He left us on the first day of April, 2024, at the age of 79, right there in Longview, Washington, the place he’d so deeply called home.

Bob was the cherished son of Edward and Phyllis (Waggoner) Johnson, and while his brothers, Larry and Jim, passed before him, their early bonds undoubtedly shaped the man he became. His roots ran deep in the Pacific Northwest; a proud graduate of R.A. Long High School in ’62, he then honed his intellect at Lower Columbia College before heading off to the University of Oregon. There, he earned his B.S. in business administration, a foundational step for a career that would reflect his sharp mind and impeccable work ethic.

But before civilian life truly began, duty called. Bob answered, serving with honor in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. From 1966 to 1970, he walked the decks of the USS Ranger aircraft carrier, a period that, for many, profoundly molds character. And it’s fair to say it did for Bob, instilling an even deeper sense of responsibility.

Life took a beautiful turn upon his return. August 15, 1970, marked the day he married Linda A. Johnson in Longview—a partnership that would blossom and endure for decades. Together, they built a family, raising two wonderful sons: Jeffrey, with his wife Kaci, and Stephen, with his wife Sara. And then came the grandchildren: Ava, Grace, Olivia, Nolan, and Ethan Johnson. Ah, the joy of grandchildren! You know, seeing the world anew through their eyes, creating memories that truly last a lifetime. That was a big part of Bob's world.

Professionally, Bob was a rock. He started in the accounting department at Weyerhaeuser, eventually transitioning to data processing, always adapting, always learning. Later, he became the controller at Fiberweb, what was once Weyerhaeuser’s nonwoven fabrics division, a role he held with distinction until his well-earned retirement in 2004. Honestly, that kind of career longevity and dedication, it speaks volumes about a person's character, doesn't it?

Yet, Bob’s dedication extended far beyond his workplace. He was, to put it mildly, a pillar of the Longview community. You could find him tirelessly serving as past president of the Longview Rotary Club, or lending his expertise to the Lower Columbia College Foundation Board, and the St. John Medical Center Foundation. The United Way also benefited from his generous spirit, as did the First Presbyterian Church, where he served as a past elder. And for leisure? Well, Bob loved his golf, truly enjoyed cheering on his beloved Duck football team, and was a steadfast fan of Blazers basketball. Travel, a good book, and, above all, quality time with his cherished family and grandchildren—these were the simple, yet profound, joys that filled his days.

Robert W. “Bob” Johnson was, in truth, a man of integrity, generosity, and kindness. He was utterly devoted to his family, his friends, and the countless organizations he touched. His legacy isn’t just in the roles he held or the projects he oversaw; it’s in the quiet, profound impact he had on people, on institutions, on the very fabric of Longview. His was a life that truly mattered, a reminder that steadfast commitment and a good heart can build something enduring. And for that, we’re all a little better for having known him.

A celebration of Bob’s remarkable life will be held at 1 p.m. on May 4 at the First Presbyterian Church in Longview. It’s an opportunity, certainly, for all who knew him to gather, to share stories, and to honor a man who, without question, left an indelible mark.