Ric Johnson

Dec. 15, 1950 — Aug. 27, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ric Johnson, who left us Aug. 27, 2023, at the age of 72. Though he departed this world unexpectedly, he was surrounded by his dear friends. Ric was born Dec. 15, 1950, to Glenn and Joan (Burgess) Johnson in Pasco, Wash. His family eventually settled in Othello, where he graduated from Othello High School. After high school, Ric moved to Spokane to attend business school. While in Spokane, Ric married his first wife and they had two children, Natalie and Patrick.

Life led Ric to Georgia where he met his second wife, Maxine. They eventually moved back to Washington to be closer to Ric’s family. Shortly after the move, Maxine was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Ric had become active in hospice after his mother passed away from cancer, which helped him through Maxine’s diagnosis. Ric continued to volunteer with hospice and served on the board for several years.

Ric met his wife, Betty, while they both worked for American Potato. They married in 1986 while on a trip to Nevada. They shared many adventures over the years, but Reno continued to be their favorite spot to visit. Ric and Betty were truly a unique couple. They came from different worlds, with personalities as distinct as night and day. Yet, their love defied all odds, proving that sometimes, it's our differences that make our bonds stronger. When Betty’s health began to fail, Ric cared for her at home until her death last year.

Ric's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish and operate a successful carpet cleaning business, which he ran for many years before his retirement. Through his business, Ric not only provided great service to countless homes and businesses in the area but also became a familiar and trusted presence in our community. Ric was also known for his active involvement in his church, where he dedicated his time and energy to his faith community.

Ric’s outgoing personality and uncanny ability to strike up conversations with strangers blessed him with many friendships over the years. Ric's teasing and playful banter were his trademark. His friends and loved ones will forever treasure the friendly taunts that they shared with him.

Ric is survived by his children, Natalie Johnson and Patrick (Jessica) Johnson, and two granddaughters, all of Spokane. He also leaves behind his sisters, Nanette (Randy) Kagele of Moses Lake and Jody (Andy) Nault of Yakima, along with numerous nieces and nephews and a wide circle of friends who will forever cherish the memories they shared. Ric is preceded in death by his wife, Betty Crompton, and his wife, Maxine Johnson.

A memorial service to celebrate Ric's life will be held Sept. 30 at 11 a.m. at Moses Lake Bible Church. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Moses Lake Home Health and Hospice, as he was a strong advocate for their important work.