Douglas Wade Johnson's Obituary
On June20, 2021, Douglas W. Johnson left this earthly plane, even though we lost him by degrees to dementia long before that.
Doug was born to Herschell Wade Johnson and Genevieve Esberg Johnson in Ft Defiance, Arizona on October 16, 1940. In 1949, his family moved to Brigham City, Utah, where he spent his early years. He graduated from Box Elder High and played on their football team. He subsequently attended Weber College, and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from University of Phoenix. He proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserves, honorably discharged in 1966.
While attending Weber College, he met his wife, Sandra Lee Day, and they were married in 1962. He was transferred by his work to Oregon where their daughter was born. They then returned to Utah where their son was born.
Doug opened, owned and operated The Paint Shop, auto body repair. Later, he managed Dave’s Auto Body Shop, and then became a field appraiser for Nationwide Insurance. He also co-developed and marketed a long-putter of which he was very proud.
His life-long love of golf was highlighted by his hole-in-one while golfing with his son at Entrada at Snow Canyon. He engaged in many other sports, and particularly loved skiing, basketball, jeeping, fishing, camping, visiting national parks, Utah sunsets and spending time with his family.
Doug is survived by his wife Sandra, daughter Kristen Lynn, son David Wade (Spring), four grandchildren, three great granddaughters, his sister Peggy Johnson Baczuk, and his little buddy Chewie. He was preceded in death by his parents and his half-sister Pauline Nelson of Fresno, CA.
We are grateful for the kindness and care of the staff and management of Summit Memory Care, and the wonderful people at Harmony Hospice who all went above and beyond to assist in so many ways at this difficult time. Thank you also to Nancy Lusk at S.L. County Aging Services and caregiver, Melissa, at Home Instead.
A Celebration of Life will be held, Saturday, July 10, in the Chateau at Le Jardin, 1910 East Dimple Dell Road, Sandy, Utah. Friends may visit any time between 12:00 noon and 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, please bring any favorite memories of Doug to share
What’s your fondest memory of Douglas?
What’s a lesson you learned from Douglas?
Share a story where Douglas' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Douglas you’ll never forget.
How did Douglas make you smile?

