JOHNSON, Dale Alvin

Today's News-Herald, Lake Havasu City, AZ - Posted: Wednesday, November 14, 2012 >> Dale Alvin Johnson << >> Feb. 13, 1927 — Nov. 4, 2012 << Dale passed away unexpectedly while recovering from a recent medical treatment in Lake Havasu City. He was born in Menahga, Minn. to parents Alvin O. Johnson and Mable (Richardson). Growing up during the depression, on the family farm and later moving to Bellingham, Wash., he learned the value of hard work. This served him well throughout his life. While completing an apprenticeship as an electrician at the Bremerton Naval Shipyard, he met and married his wife Clarine Ann (Gunsolus). In 1948, hoping to improve the future for his family, he headed to Alaska in an old Ford with his toolbox in the trunk. This bold enterprise began a 30-year career in the electrical construction industry. As Vice President of City Electric Inc., he oversaw projects throughout Alaska and the western United States. Notable projects included: Nike missile defense system in Alaska; Stanford University's linear particle accelerator and Boeing's Everett Washington assembly plant — the world's largest building. The industry took him all over the world, but Alaska "where they worked hard and played hard" was always in his heart. Retirement included travel; one RV adventure brought Dale and Ann to all corners of the U.S. They enjoyed happy years between their homes in Anchorage and Lake Havasu City. Dale was a strong, caring, loving father and friend to many. He came a long way from modest beginnings, but always enjoyed the simple things in life. Dale was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Dolores Peden and Shirley Larsen. Among those who will miss him greatly are his loving wife, Ann Johnson, of Anchorage; their children, Donald Johnson, of Port Orchard, Wash., Penny Dilles, of Lake Havasu City, Karen Lauder (William Jr.), of Anchorage, Alaska, Debbie Risch, of Anchorage, Alaska; grandchildren, Aaron, Johnson, Elizabeth Dilles, Autumn Lauder and Keaton Lauder; great-granddaughter, Elora Johnson and his beloved Shih Tzu, Nikki. The family is deeply saddened but heartened by memories and the recall of Dad's pride and love for family. We are reminded to recognize the impermanence of life. At his request, no services are planned. Dale's ashes will be spread over the hill above Anchorage next summer. Thoughts and condolences can be sent to Dale's family at www.lietz-frazefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home & Crematory.