Van Richard Johnson

Van Richard Johnson joined his loving wife, Barbara, peacefully while sleeping on June 2nd, 2023.

While Van had accomplished great things and helped many during his life, most will remember Van for his clever wit, inviting smile and kindness towards others.

Born to Dorian and Fern Johnson on Sept 18th 1944, Van grew up gifted physically and intellectually achieving recognitions in both sports and academics. These traits served him well in supporting his mother, sister and two brothers when, at the age of 16, his father passed away.

Having grown up a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Van was called at age 19, and willingly served a 2 ½ year mission in Norway, a unique blessing as his father had served in the same mission. Van graduated from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah where he met his eternal companion, Barbara Ann Gray. They were sealed for time and eternity in Idaho Falls on Aug 30th, 1967.

Van’s education, career, and service pursuits provided him and Barbara the opportunity to live in, see, and serve in many parts of the U.S. and various parts of the World. After settling in California, Van was promoted to the position of President and CEO of Sutter Health, a role he considered an honor and a privilege. While living in California, Van and Barbara suffered the devastating loss of their youngest daughter, Alisha Johnson. Facing this trial together, with the rest of their 6 children, they learned how to truly demonstrate love for their family and each other. A blessing their many grandchildren have cherished.

Upon his retirement, he continued a life of service with the Church as a Mission President, Service Missionary, member of the Sacramento Temple Presidency, and a temple sealer. He found great joy providing small acts of service that people wouldn’t expect, such as offering to purchase a stranger’s groceries for them while waiting in line at the local store.

Van is survived by six of his seven children Jerilyn (Darren) Butterfield, Daron (Staci) Johnson, Bryan (Trish) Johnson, Devan (Kim) Johnson, Deldon (Karen) Johnson and Jashel (Ryan) Euer. He leaves behind 30 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, whom he loved and cherished.
Van was met and celebrated by those who loved and preceded him in death- His father Dorian Johnson, mother Fern Christensen, his daughter Alisha Johnson and his eternal companion and wife, Barbara Johnson.

Funeral services will be held at 11AM on Monday, June 19th, 2023 at the Midas Creek 6th Ward, 10860 South 3200 West in South Jordan Utah. A viewing for friends and family will be held on Sunday evening, June 18th, 2023 from 6-8PM at the Larkin Mortuary – Riverton, 3688 West 12600 South in Riverton, Utah. Another viewing will be held Monday morning prior to the funeral services at the ward beginning at 10AM. Interment next to his wife Barbara will follow in the Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery in Sandy, Utah.

Funeral services will be stream via Zoom for those wishing to attend virtually. To watch the previously held funeral services, please click the “Watch Services” link above.