JOHNSON, Rock Richard

Wickenburg Sun (Wickenburg, Arizona) Wednesday, October 9, 2024, p. A-4 Sergeant Rock Richard Johnson passed away on Sept. 28, 2024 while on leave from Iraq. He is survived by his wife, Adela Calero Johnston; sons, Joshua and James Calero Johnson; and Omar Calero (stepson). Rocky is also survived by his mother, Barbara Casey; Raymond and Shelley Frank (sister), Daniel and Stacey Archuleta (sister) and Tony Johnson (brother). Rocky joined Luke Air Force Base in 1986 where his eight-year military career began. Rocky's primary specialty was fire protection journeyman. Rocky received two Associate of Applied Science degrees, one in instructor of technology and military science and one in fire science. Rocky also received recognition for Outstanding Achievement as a fire protection specialist, 4409th Combat Support Group (Provisional), Riyadh Air Base, Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia. While serving in Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm, Sergeant Johnson's outstanding performance and technological skills provided firefighting support through the build-up and warfighting phases of Riyadh Air Base and Eskan Village to include 10 major flying units, a 1700-person tent city and a housing area for over 16,000 personnel. He demonstrated dedication to squadron and mission objectives was exemplary. Rocky had many other achievements while serving in the military. After receiving an honorable discharge from the military in 1994, Rocky began working as a civilian for military bases in the Middle East. His job title was lieutenant and fire captain. In 2002, Rocky accepted a contract in Ecuador and met his wife Adela. They made a home in Ecuador together. He would frequently talk about all the monkeys, birds and banana trees on his property. Ecuador became his second home. Rocky enjoyed walking his dogs, fishing, wildlife, antiques, football and the ocean. Rocky's favorite charity was the Wounded Warrior Project. He thought it was a wonderful program and spoke of it often. He will be remembered as a selfless and giving person to everyone around him. Services will be held at the First Southern Baptist Church of Wickenburg on Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024 at 11 a.m. His ashes will be laid to rest at the Wickenburg Cemetery and in Ecuador.