Thomas Edward Johnson

Thomas Johnson passed peacefully on September 11, 2026, at the age of 86, after a battle with cancer.

Tom was born on May 29, 1940, to Henry and Margaret Johnson in Tacoma, Washington. Growing up in Tacoma, he spent his childhood camping, fishing and exploring the Titlow Beach area with friends – many of whom remained companions throughout his life. He also spent summers on his grandparents’ farm in Eatonville, Washington. Tom attended Stadium High School and then went on to Western Washington University where he earned a degree in education.

Tom was a natural born teacher and spent the majority of his career at Mount Tahoma High School as an Industrial Arts teacher. He loved working with high school kids and showing them how to build, fix and create. He also coached various sports, including wrestling and golf. Tom spent 37 years in education and would frequently run into former students around town who were always eager to say hello.

Throughout his life, Tom was an avid skier, fisherman, craftsman, golfer, and outdoorsman and he found great joy in sharing these passions with his friends and family. It was his tight-knit group of skiing friends who introduced him to his wife of 54 years, Sally (Puz) Johnson. Later, his passion for the slopes led him to co-own a ski school at Crystal Mountain. Tom’s love for the outdoors also anchored him to Anderson Island. Alongside his brother, the late Dennis Johnson, and a group of childhood friends, he purchased neighboring properties along the shore of Oro Bay, where he built a log cabin with some help from friends. There, family and friends spent unforgettable years boating, clamming, water-skiing, hosting bonfires and walking the beach. A lifelong fisherman, Tom regularly fished local waters, including the fishing grounds just out from his island home.

After retiring from teaching, he filled his time golfing weekly with friends, and heading up to Mount Rainier for hiking, camping and snowshoeing in the National Park, where he connected with a community of friends who shared his deep love for the mountain.

Tom will be remembered most for his kind, patient, and positive nature. He was a beloved teacher, loyal friend, loving husband, cherished father, and extremely proud grandpa. He loved the Pacific Northwest and throughout his life he found ways to connect with the nature and people around him.

Tom is survived by his wife, Sally; his daughter, Heather; son-in-law, Javier Dyer; and his grandson, Logan Dyer, who was a source of great pride and joy.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Washington Trails Association.