Radioman Seaman

UNITED STATES NAVY

Richard Lee Johnson was born on June 8, 1943, in Hendricks, Minn.  He was baptized and confirmed in the Calvary Lutheran Church of Hendricks, and he received his elementary and secondary education in that city.

Ricky, as he was known to his family and friends, was cordial with young and old alike.  While in school, he was active in sports; and he earned his high school letters in baseball and basketball.  After graduating from high school, he worked for one year in Minneapolis, Minn., before joining the Navy.

After completing his recruit training at the U.S. Naval Training Center, San Diego, Calif., he volunteered and was accepted for submarine duty.  He was graduated from Submarine School on November 22, 1962.  Shortly thereafter, on February 15, 1963, he was assigned to the USS Thresher (SSN 593).

Ricky is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Edgar G. Johnson of Hendricks, Minn.; a brother, Louvaine Allen Johnson of Tyler, Minn.; and four sisters:  Mrs. Arnie (Gladys) Johnson of Minneapolis, Minn.; Mrs. Blaine (Marlene) Pederson, also of Minneapolis; Mrs. Kiar (Carlene) Nielsen of Tyler, Minn.; and Mrs. Duane (Delores) Martens of Hendricks, Minn.