Keith Edward Johnson

On Wednesday December 14, 2022, Keith E. Johnson, loving husband and father of three passed away at age 73.

Keith was born on October 20, 1949 in Long Beach, CA to Ellsworth and Agnes (Holm) Johnson. Keith enlisted in the Marines straight out of high school in 1967. He served for two years during which time he was in Vietnam. He believed in God, Family, Country. Semper Fi  On July 27, 1973, he married Ruth Ann Van Dusen.  They raised two sons, Aaron and Kevin (Adam), and one daughter Kristen Evelyn. In May 1978 he graduated from Long Beach City College with an associate in Aviation. Then he received his commercial pilots license and began his 36 year career in aviation. His last job was flying for JetBlue as one of their founding pilots. He retired in October of 2014.

Keith's highest priority in life was taking care of and looking after his family. Everyone knew that if they needed any help, Keith would be there. One of his greatest joys was spending time with his grandchildren.  He dreamt of being a pilot as a little boy going to McDonnell Douglas with his dad for their open house each year.  He never thought he would actually do it, but as he got older he thought why not.?  He worked hard and eventually his dream came true.  He saw the world and made friends every where he went. 

Keith was preceded in death by his parents, Ellsworth and Agnes. Also his two brothers Paul and Gary and his big sister Lynda. He is survived by his wife Ruth Ann of 49 years, his three children, Aaron, Kristen, Kevin(Adam) and his wife Megan. Also his three grandchildren Ryan, Gunnar and Emma and his two sisters Diane and Karen.

A funeral will be held on Friday December 30, 2022 at 1:45 p.m. at Riverside National Cemetery 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA 92518 

Please arrive before 1:30 pm and check in at the information kiosk at the entrance. RNC's staff will provide you the assembly point. 

Flowers or donations my be sent to 16575 Albany Way, Fontana, CA 92335.