William (Bill) Roger Johnson was born May 10, 1939 in Junction City, Oregon. He passed away at the age of 78 on Dec. 1, 2017 at his home in Rio Dell, with his loving wife Dorothy by his side.

Bill was a wonderful father, grandfather (papa) and friend. One of his biggest joys was spending time with his family at his summer home at Ruth Lake. He loved being the captain of his boat, teaching all of his children to water ski at a young age. He also took his family on many vacations when his children were growing up. He was a true family man, always putting his family first. Bill had many talents, including woodworking, construction on his home and building his dream car, his ‘55 Chevy.

During his working years, Bill was always involved in the timber industry from skidding logs to driving log truck. For 30 plus years he worked for Don Nolan Trucking, where he was well known as Little Britches. After retiring from logging, Bill and his wife Dorothy opened DJ’s Burger Bar in Rio Dell. Bill was instrumental in the maintenance at the Burger Bar. Even after he was no longer able to work he was there everyday visiting with customers.

Bill is preceded in death by his first wife Bonnie, his mom and dad, and his two brothers. He is survived by his wife Dorothy; his sister Betty Stepp; his children Shelly Brooks (Steve), Roger Johnson (Barbee), Cindy Johnson (Bob), Carl Johnson (Monica), Wes Richter, Jackie Carter (Mark), and Bonnie Johnson (James); his grandchildren Zach, Devon, Kyler, Jacob, Taylor, Tezrah, Kaden, Brent, Elizabeth, Rocky, Stephen, Brandi, Jeremy, Kayla, Billy, Roger, and Angie and numerous great-grandchildren.

Bill’s family would like to express a special thanks to Hospice of Humboldt, his nurse, Kiona, and his social worker, Debbie P., for the care they provided. They would also like to thank Jan Oldridge, a family friend for her care during the last four months of his life, and Dr. Baird for his long-term care of Bill.  There will be a celebration of Bill’s life on Jan. 13 at 2 p.m. at the Rio Dell Fire Hall.  This will be a potluck, so please bring a dish to share. All who knew Bill are welcome to attend.  

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The obituary above was submitted by Bill Johnson’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.