Charles Raymond Johnson

Charles Raymond Johnson

Charles Raymond (Ray) Johnson, beloved father and husband, passed away on February 12, 2025, at the age of 76, with family by his side. Ray’s journey with metastatic pancreatic cancer took him through numerous hospitalizations, a few major surgeries, and hundreds of chemo treatments. Ray credited his ability to keep cancer at bay for so long to his unyielding stubbornness and positive thinking. His determination defied expectations, and for over six years, he was able to enjoy time in his garden, with family, and continue his career, all while bravely battling the disease.

Ray was born in April 1948, the first child of Chuck and Dorothy Johnson. He grew up in Spokane, WA with three sisters and one brother, and earned his Associate degree in electronics. Since jobs in the electronics industry were sparse there, Ray made the decision to move to the greater Seattle area, where he quickly thrived in the electronics industry. He would spend the next 56 years of his life in a career doing what he loved.

In 1974, Ray was able to buy a “starter” home in rural Bothell, one that continues to be his legacy to this day. He loved working on his home both inside and out and took great pride in calling himself a “meticulous craftsman”. He designed and constructed the 40-foot front porch, as well as the original large backyard deck of his treasured home. Ray also enjoyed making wood crafts and helping his family with various creative endeavors.

Ray met his future wife, Pam, in 1976, and even at the end of his life, he spoke with pride at the story of how they met, fell in love, and were married within six months. Together, they raised two daughters, Sarah and Amy, turning their humble starter home into a place full of love and memories.

Ray was a natural helper. When family and friends needed help, they came to Ray. Always ready and willing, Ray’s desire to serve led him to become a member of Kiwanis, where he continued offering his time and support. One of his favorite volunteer activities was working with the All Aboard organization that provides activities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Ray especially looked forward to their monthly SPIN Dance events, so much so that he made sure his chemotherapy schedule never conflicted with them.

Ray is survived by his wife, Pam, his daughters, Sarah and Amy (Ben), and his granddaughter, Eowyn. He is also survived by his sisters, Sue, Bonnie (Chuck), and Linda (Frank), his brother, David, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Chuck and Dorothy, his grandparents, his brother-in-law, Bill, and nephew, Nathan; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held April 26 at 2pm at Edmonds United Methodist Church. If interested, please consider donating to Evergreen Health Hospice Care Center. They provided compassionate care for Ray and his family for the final five days of Ray’s life. For that, we are very grateful.

Ray’s motto in life was, “I just want people to be happy. I always just wanted to make them happy.” You succeeded, Ray. You succeeded. May you rest in peace.