JOHNSON, Richard (Rusty)

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ August 13, 2007 Richard "Rusty" Johnson, 59, of Lakeside died Wednesday, Aug. 8, at his home. Rusty was born Feb. 20, 1948, at Hutchison, Kan., the son of Don and Maxine (Coon) Johnson. He was raised and attended school in Kansas and Colorado, graduating from Boulder High School in 1965. After school he enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served three tours in Vietnam and retired in 1988 after 23 years of service. )Richard was married to the former Sona Ferrell on May 29, 1982, in Phoenix. Following his military career he worked for the U.S. Departments of Health and Urban Development, Agriculture and Forestry Service. He came to Show Low seven years ago and enjoyed riding motorcycles and building things, including his house. Survivors include his wife, Sona; daughter Nicole Derryberry of Gilbert; son Zachary Johnson of Tucson; stepdaughter Dawn Contreras (Peter) of Orange County, Calif.; stepson Bill Dloughy (Beth) of Gilbert; brother Larry Johnson of Apple Valley, Calif.; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial service was held at 1 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 12, at the family residence, 2524 Richardson Lane, in Lakeside. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Disabled American Veterans. Arrangements were under the direction of Black's Mortuary of Show Low. You may sign the guest book and offer condolences at www.blacksmortuary.com