Ronald Leonard Johnson July 30, 1935 ~ November 11, 2023

Ronald Leonard Johnson, known to his loved ones as Ron or Ronnie, passed away on November 11, 2023, at the age of 88 in South Jordan, UT.
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 is preceded in death by his parents and sons-in-law Richard Nogues and Doug Havens.
Ron 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 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 dad taught him how to be a mechanic and Ron built his first car before he was 16.
Ron worked as an Agricultural Loan Officer at Production Credit Association in Salt Lake, Logan and Roosevelt, UT. He later joined First Security Bank 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 and his sweetheart visited over 60 temples over his lifetime. He served a 3-year mission to Sweden when he was 19.
He and Merna served a Senior Couples 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, receiving his Wood Badge and Silver Beaver award. He served on the school board in Duchesne County and on the board of a medical research organization. He rejuvenated the Lions Club in Monticello and was selected the Lion of the Year, 1994-1995.
Ron loved to camp, hunt, fish and play tennis especially with his sweetheart. He really enjoyed gathering around a table to play board and card games.
He played the piano and loved to sing. He loved to ride his bike, walk, swim and ski and participated in several triathlons over the years.
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.
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.

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