Harold D. Johnson passed away peacefully at age 93 on June 22 at United General Hospital in Sedro Woolley, surrounded by his children.

Harold was born on November 3, 1922 in Leroy, Michigan. There he learned skills in farming, building, and repairing, as well as a love of animals.

Harold joined the Navy in December, 1941 and served as a gunner in dive bombers on the USS Lexington during WWII. After the war, he met Arlene Hansen in Chicago. They were married in 1946; a marriage that would last for 56 years. Together they raised their family.

Harold served for 14 years in the Navy, then 8 years in the Air Force. He retired with the rank of Master Sergeant. As retirement approached, he and his family moved to Arlington. He would live in the Arlington/Smokey Point area for over 50 years. After the military, he worked for over 20 years at General Telephone Company.

Harold was a master mechanic and a skilled craftsman. He especially loved woodworking. He often did building or repair projects for his family and friends.

He enjoyed learning, earning his high school diploma, an Associate’s Degree from Everett Community College in 1973, then studying Safety Engineering at Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

After Arlene passed away in 2002, Harold continued to live at home in Smokey Point. During the last 2 years, Harold lived at Home Place Special Care in Burlington. He was loved by his family and friends. He will be deeply missed.

Harold is survived by his children; Cathie Johnson of Olympia, Debra Johnson Hall (husband Robert) of Anacortes, and Greg Johnson (wife Gail) of Olympia. He also leaves 5 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

A funeral service with full military honors was held at the Arlington Cemetery on July 2, followed by a family gathering and time of reflection.