Richard "Dick" Johnson passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on June 1, 2024. He was 98 years old. Richard was born in Fabens, Texas on April 19, 1926, to Robert and Leah Johnson.

Richard grew up in Texas and Arizona and graduated from North Phoenix High School in 1945. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served as a signalman on the U.S.S. Enterprise at the tail end of WWII. Richard earned several degrees, including a Bachelor's degree in journalism from Southern Methodist University, a Masters of Arts degree from the University of Oregon, and a Ph.D. in English Literature from Denver University.

Richard was a writer and published 'The Hope of Refuge' in 1956. For most of his career, he was a journalist for various newspapers, including the Dallas Times Herald and The Denver Post. He retired from The Denver Post in 1995 after a distinguished 20-year career there. During his lifetime, he was very active in fighting for human rights, especially for migrants living in the United States.

Richard is preceded in death by his wife, Marina Johnson (Trujillo), his parents, Robert and Leah, and his brothers Robert and Paul. He is survived by his son, Zachary Allen Johnson (Ranae); son, Daniel Matthew Johnson (Jamie); Daughter, Lavonne Lucero (Eric); Son, David Romero (Dianna); Daughter, Carla Sanchez (David); his sister-in-law, Mary Johnson (Anderson) as well as grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Richard will be interred on Monday, July 8, 2024, 11:30 am (Staging Area B) at Fort Logan National Cemetery 4400 W Kenyon Ave, Denver, CO 80236 in recognition of his honorable service in the Navy.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to Elevation Hospice which provided excellent care and comfort to Richard during his final months, or to the charity of your choice.