Keith Richard Johnson

Keith Richard Johnson completed his life journey on August 16th, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. He is now held in the palm of God’s hands. He was born April 26th, 1930 in Centralia, Washington to Shiner and Rose Johnson. Keith was the oldest of six children, Dennis and his wife Molly, Perry and his wife Helen, Kay Duvall, Chuck and his wife Dodie. Keith was preceded in death by his parents, his sister and brother-in-law Joanie and Andy Collins, his brother-in-law Pat Duvall and his daughter.

 Keith graduated from St Martins High School in 1947 at 17. His early years were marked by his dedication and service. He enlisted in the Army in 1948 and served until 1952. In 1956 Keith graduated from Seattle University with a degree in Civil Engineering from 1971 until his retirement in 2005. He was a born Engineer.

 During his college years he met the love of his life, Mary Jane Richter. It took patience and a few band-aids worn on his t-shirt, over his heart, but Keith and Mary Jane married on June 15, 1957. They just celebrated their 67th Wedding Anniversary. Their relationship is an inspiration to family and friends, exemplifying commitment and love. Keith was dedicated to Mary Jane. They loved spending time together. He was made an honorary school nurse because he would accompany her to all her School Nurse Conferences. Keith and Mary Jane loved traveling, especially their winter trips to Kauai after retirement. Mary Jane nursed and lovingly care for Keith in his final years.

 Keith raised four amazing sons and supported and teased his daughters-in-law’s. Michael and his wife Paula, Patrick and his wife Sue, Doug and his wife Janna, Jim and his wife Lisa. Keith’s grandchildren described him as a quiet role model and card playing partner. They love him dearly along with their spouses. Pat’s children are Brittany and her husband Jim Costa, Scott and his wife Shelby, Karl and his wife Kenzie, and Blake. Michael’s Children are Rachael and her partner Mathias, and TJ. Doug’s children are Wyatt and Haley. Jim’s daughter is Elise and her husband Durin Giglio. Kieth had 5 great grandchildren. Rachael’s boys; Ledger and Bennett. And Karl’s children Kruz, Cade and Camryn.

 Keith hunted and fished when the boys were younger. He gladly pulled pots of crab and shrimp and dug clams for Mary Jane. Following the Farmer’s Almanac, he always had a huge garden. Most of all he enjoyed a glass of wine and playing cards; cribbage, pinochle, poker, and pitch. Even with dementia Keith would call out the cards in his hand. Jim and Patrick played cribbage near him in his final hours, so he could hear the cards shuffling. 

Keith’s legacy is one of love, dedication, and resilience. Fly high Keith. We love and miss you already.

Funeral Mass will be held at St. Michael's Church on September 4th, 2024 at 11:50 AM, located at 1208 11th AVE SE, Olympia, Washington.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Keith's Honor.