Ronnie Johnson

Ronnie J. Johnson, 90, of Olathe, KS and formerly of Ottawa, KS passed away Sunday, June 4, 2023 at his home in Olathe, KS.  He was born October 19, 1932 in Ottawa, KS the son of Junior “Swede” Johnson and Lavon (Young) Johnson.  He attended Lincoln Elementary School and Ottawa Junior High School in Ottawa, KS.  He graduated from the San Juan High School in Fair Oaks, CA with the Class of 1950.

After High School he attended Grant Technical College. He served our country in the United States Army at Fairbanks, Alaska for two years. He then attended Sacramento State College in California.

He returned to Kansas and went to work for the Santa Fe Rail Road. As a Conductor, after forty-three years, three months and two days of service he retired November 29, 1994.  His seniority at that time of retirement with the Rail Road was #1 on the list.   

He was married June 18, 1955 to Joan Cramer of Ottawa. They later divorced. From this union two children were born, Ty and Teal. 

He was a member of the Olathe Wesleyan Church.  Ronnie was a Tennis Buff.  He owned and operated “The Tennis Hut” and was Tournament Director for many Ottawa Open Tennis Tournaments.  He also served as President for five years with the Forrest Park Tennis Club.  

Mr. Johnson was preceded in death by his parents, Swede and Lavon Johnson; and a brother, Johnnie Johnson.

Survivors include a significant other, Donna Crane of Ottawa, KS; a son, Ty Johnson and Tracie of Reno, NV; Teal Hanson and her significant other, Darrin of Pomona, KS; a brother, Jimmie Johnson of St. Francis, GA; three grandchildren, Talya Suffron Burkdoll, Brandon Johnson and Jayden Johnson; and one great granddaughter, Nikki.

A graveside service will be held 3 p.m. Saturday, June 10, 2023 at the Highland Cemetery, Ottawa, KS.  The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 9, 2023 at the Lamb-Roberts-Price Funeral Home, 325 S. Hickory, Ottawa, KS 66067.  Memorial contributions may be made to Prairie Paws or Good Shepherd Hospice and sent in c/o the Lamb-Roberts-Price Funeral Home P.O. 14, Ottawa, KS 66067.  Condolences may be sent the family through www.lamb-roberts.com.

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