Ronald Leonard Johnson

Ronald Leonard Johnson, known to his loved ones as Ron or Ronnie, passed away surrounded by loved ones, on November 11, 2023, at the age of 88 in South Jordan, Utah. Born on July 30, 1935, in Salt Lake City, Ron was the son of Leonard and Elva Johnson. He is survived by his sweetheart, Merna Christensen Johnson, and their children Melanie (Ron) Sorensen, Kasi (Rich) Palmer, LeeAnn (Doug) Havens, Lynn (Dee Ann) Johnson, Jannette (Stephen) Frederick, Robert (Corri) Johnson, and his brothers Marlin (Diane) Johnson and Ray (Diane) Johnson. Ron was preceded in death by his parents and sons-in-law Richard Nogues and Doug Havens.

Ron had a rich educational background. He attended Oniqua Primary School in Salt Lake City and later graduated from West High School. He furthered his education at Utah State University where he met is sweetheart Merna, while pulling her out of a snowbank, and started his eternal family.

Ron served his country with honor and dedication, having been associated with both the Air National Guard and the U.S. Army 17th Aviation Regiment as a mechanic from 1959 to 1961. His military service exemplified his commitment to serving and protecting his nation. His dad taught him how to be a mechanic and Ron built his first car before he was 16.

Following his military service, Ron embarked on a successful career. He worked as an Agricultural Loan Officer at Production Credit Association in Salt Lake, Logan and Roosevelt, Utah. He later joined First Security Bank, where he served as a Commercial Loan Officer and Branch Manager, making a significant impact in Roosevelt and Monticello.

Ron was a life-long active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and enjoyed attending the temple. He visited over 60 temples over his lifetime. He served a 3-year mission to Sweden when he was 19. He and Merna served a 6-month mission while stationed at Fort Ord California and then later in life served Senior Couple Missions to Chicago and Thailand. He served in various leadership positions, including Bishop, Stake Presidency, Stake Patriarch, Temple Sealer and Monticello Temple Presidency. His faith was an essential part of his life. His brother Marlin said it best: “I can’t think of a thing Ron ever said or did that was wrong. He set an example for all to try to reach.”

His life was dedicated to service. He was an avid scouter and completed all requirements for the National Wood Badge and was also honored with the Silver Beaver award, the highest recognition a local council can bestow on volunteer leaders. He was elected by the community and served on the School Board in Duchesne County. He served on the board of the HHT Foundation, a medical research organization, and he rejuvenated the Lions Club in Monticello and was selected the Lion of the Year, 1994-1995.

In his free time, Ron enjoyed many activities and hobbies, but his focus was always on being with family and friends. He loved to camp, hunt, fish, ski and play tennis especially with his sweetheart. He really enjoyed gathering around a table to play card and board games. He played the piano and loved to sing. He sang in various choirs his whole life and sang in a barbershop quartet for a short time. He loved to ride his bike, walk and swim and participated in several triathlons over the years. He would walk three miles a day up until he broke his hip at age 84. Above all, Ron cherished his role as a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He found joy in being a dedicated family man and a creative handyman often using Gorilla Glue and Duct Tape in his projects. He will be fondly remembered for popping popcorn and making milkshakes to any and all who visited.

Ronald Leonard Johnson will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, and a cherished brother and friend. His legacy of service, faith, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.

The funeral services for Ron will be on Friday November 17th at 11:00am at the South Jordan Park County Stake Center. (2447 W 11400 S, South Jordan) There will be a viewing from 10:00am to 10:45am. The family deeply appreciates the support and condolences received during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers donations would be appreciated to the HHT Foundation, a genetic disorder that Ron battled with his whole life.