Harry Johnson

Obituary Harry W. Johnson II Harry W. Johnson II a lifelong educator, passed away peacefully on December 8, 2012 at the grand old age of 94. Harry was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on May 11, 1918 to his parents, Harry Sr. and Anna Linn Johnson. Following in his father's footsteps, Harry was a devoted member and supporter of the Congregational Church, serving as Deacon while residing in Olympia, and also as a long-time member of The First Congregational Church here in Tacoma. He grew up with his beloved "little brother" Clyde, and sister Lois Ann, with whom he truly enjoyed their loving camaraderie and friendship throughout their life adventures. Harry greatly missed Clyde (Myrtle of Los Angeles) and Lois Ann (Wayne-predeceased of Colorado Springs, Colorado) who both predeceased him some years ago. Harry was a veteran, having served in the U.S. Army as part of the medic unit during World War II. He attended and obtained a B.A. from Oberlin College, then went on to earn a Master's Degree and Ph.D. from the University of Chicago. Notwithstanding his having earned the title, being a modest man, Harry preferred not to be addressed as "Dr. Johnson." He greatly enjoyed teaching at all levels, from elementary school all the way up to the college level. Harry particularly enjoyed teaching 5th grade as he could get the kids involved in great baseball games during recess. Harry authored several books, including: "How to be a Perfect Speller" and taught reading to young students; a book on bridge: "Steps to Bidding" which was an enduring passion; and was quite proud of (The Teacher's Taxonomy), a manual of teaching methods for educators; as well as a book of poetry, and many articles and other scholarly contributions. Harry was also an inventor of a modified pool cue, out of necessity when multiple strokes made it difficult to use his dominant left hand. In addition to teaching at many schools and universities over his life, including the University of Omaha, the University of Wisconsin at Platteville, and The University of Minnesota at Duluth, to name a few. Harry also enjoyed working before "retiring" from the Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, where he was primarily involved in the Department of Testing and Evaluation. Following his "retirement," Harry founded "The Gwen E. Johnson School of Learning" along with his wife Gwen, which they operated for about 10 years before closing, due to advancing age and health concerns. During those years Harry could be seen around town driving the "bright red trolley bus" to the delight of children. It was a replica of a San Francisco trolley and was taken on countless school field trips, in addition to daily transport of the students. He was also avidly involved with and loved teaching young children, especially the challenge of finding a way to spark each child's interest. Harry's methodical methods of teaching are legendary, and his patience was amazing. Harry is predeceased by his first wife, Mary Elizabeth Glenn, to whom he was married for 26 years before her passing. Together they had three children, Katy Johnson of Olympia, Faith Davis (Bobby) of Houston and Kevin Johnson (Kelly) of Olympia. Harry married Gwendolyn Evans Johnson in 1974, in a memorable wedding celebration lasting several days, and was incredibly devoted to her for 32 years before her passing in 2006. He became a loving step-father to George R.E. Barcus (predeceased in 1978), Ben Barcus (Nurhan) of University Place and Nancy Rogers (Jeff) of Mercer Island. He greatly enjoyed grandchildren including Rollo & Erryn Frans, and Gabe Johnson all of Olympia, Glenn Grace Davis of Houston, Rachel (Nick) Sherron of Olympia, and Claire Johnson of Portland, as well as George B. and Henry Barcus of University Place, and Jake and William Rogers of Mercer Island. He also enjoyed great-grandchildren Nathan and Kyle Johnson of Olympia and Ava Claire Sherron, also of Olympia. Harry also greatly enjoyed many nephews and nieces, including Joyce Planeta of Briano, CA, Wendy (Kent) Crowley (predeceased), Karen Lamb of Idaho, Ross Lonsdorf of Los Angeles, CA and Laurie Lonsdorf of Lansing, MI; as well as other extended family members of his brother Clyde in Los Angeles. It was a blessing that all five of Harry's surviving children were able to express their love to him before his passing. The family wishes to extend their appreciation to Dr. Lowell C. Finkleman, who provided excellent medical care to Harry for many years, and to the Bunn family, owners of The Weatherly Inn in Tacoma, and their attentive and caring staff, where Harry resided in recent years. Harry's sister-in-law Myrtle Pennick Johnson also provided years of love, attention and support to Harry, especially in recent years after brother Clyde's passing. In addition, during his last days, the staff at St. Joseph's hospital, and The Franciscan Hospice House - who provided a professional and incredibly peaceful place to rest before his passing. A memorial service will be held at The Kilworth Memorial Chapel - The University of Puget Sound, North 18th and Warner Street, Tacoma, Washington 98416, on Friday, December 14, 2012 at 2:00 p.m., with a reception to follow in the Chapel's hall. Memorials may be made to the educational fund of your choosing, or to The Franciscan Hospice House - 2901 Bridgeport Way West, University Place, WA 98466, in Harry's honor. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003