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Jeffery Earl Johansen
09/17/1969 — 05/13/2007
From Richland, WA, US | Born in Kennewick, Washington
Jeffery Earl Johansen
Jeffery Earl Johansen, 37, of Richland, Washington suddenly passed away on May 13, 2007 surrounded by his loving wife and family.
Jeff was born on September 17, 1969 in Kennewick, Washington to Janice Isdell Dean and Earl Ross Johansen. He attended school in Richland and graduated from Richland High School in 1989. Jeff was an avid hunter and fisherman. After graduating from high school, he continued his passion for fishing in the state of Alaska before returning to Richland to be with his high school sweetheart who eventually became his wife. At that time, he worked for a home building contractor in the Tri-City area. A few years later, he accepted a job for Burlington Northern Railroad as a switchman/conductor, but continued his passion for fishing on the side. After leaving the railroad, he married and had two beautiful children that will miss him more than words can say. It breaks our hearts to know they will never get a chance to completely know him for the great man and father he was.
After leaving the railroad, he started his own business, Columbia River Guides and took countless people on guided fishing trips in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Jeff was so happy and willing to share his expertise and knowledge with others. He presented seminars for Sportsman's Warehouse and had many friends, followers, and family who looked to him for advice. He was highly respected by his peers and colleagues in the fishing profession because of his talent. During his fishing career he worked his way to the top. He was an exceptional fisherman and was the best of the best because of his continued dedication and hard work.
Jeff wanted to be the greatest he could be and had many accomplishments to his name. He was a certified U.S. Coast Guard Fishing Guide for Washington and Oregon. He gave numerous contributions to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Ducks Unlimited, and other various groups to help their cause by volunteering his time and talents. He was organizing a group with the Coastal Conservation Association to enhance fishing on the Columbia River System and the coastal waters off Oregon and Washington. It is obvious to us that Jeff touched many lives in his short life on earth.
One of his other passions was having barbecues for family and friends. Jeff was diagnosed with diabetes but was determined to stay healthy for his family. Fitness became a part of his lifestyle. It was then that he took up mountain biking. He loved camping and spending time at the family property in the Blue Mountains. He looked forward to elk and deer season each year and longed for the day he would be able to teach his son and daughter to hunt.
Jeff is survived by his wife Tamara Marie and their children Riley 5 and Lillie 2; parents Michael and Janice Isdell and Ross and Vida Johansen; sisters Tiffany McLaughlin Dale, Amy Johansen Brennan, and Michelle; brothers Jared Brittney and RJ Isdell; grandparents Gene and Lorraine Wilkinson, Verniece Dean, Joan Johansen, and numerous uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Jeff is preceded in death by his great-grandma Lillie Mae Nepper, great-grandpa Eugene Wilkinson Sr., and his two grandfathers Earl Ross Johansen Sr. and Norman Edgar Dean.
Jeff clearly loved life and the great outdoors. He was a wonderful husband and father, a man the entire family could feel proud of. Jeff's enthusiasm and love for life inspires us to be better individuals and to always follow our dreams. It is clear to all that knew him that he worked hard and lived life to the fullest. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him and will remain in our hearts forever.
Viewing will be held at Einan's Funeral Home from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, May 18th, 2007 and from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday May 19th. Services will be held at Central United Protestant Church on Stevens Dr. in Richland on Saturday, May 19th at 2:00 p.m. A celebration of Jeff's life will follow at Columbia Point Marina Park grounds in Richland. A donation account in memory of Jeff Johansen has been established for his children at HAPO Federal Credit Union. Those wishing to honor his memory may contribute to the account at any HAPO branch office to ensure his children will enjoy life the way that Jeff would have wanted.
The family welcomes you to express your thoughts and memories in the online guest book at www.einansfuneralhome.com.
Fisherman's Prayer God grant that I may live To fish until my dying day, And when it comes To my last cast Then I most humbly pray, When in the Lord's safe Landing net I'm peacefully asleep, That in his mercy I be judged As big enough to keep.
IM GOING TO MISS SEEING JEFF FISHING ON THE SNAKE RIVER. HE WAS ONE OF THE BEST. AS FOR MYSELF BEING A GUIDE AND ALL THE OTHER GUIDES ON THE SNAKE WE ALL MISS HIM AND WE WILL THINK OF HIM WHEN WE ARE FISHING ON THE RIVER. I HOPE YOU GET THE FISHING ALL DIALED IN UP THERE SO YOU CAN SHOW US WHEN GOD NETS US. MY GOD BE WITH YOU. MIKE KELLY FISH REAPER
Tammy, I just wanted to express my deepest condolences for your loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Tam, Jan, Mike and family:
I can not express to you how sad I am at what has happened. I knew Jeff for close to 20 years and considered him a true friend. Honestly, Jeff was one of the nicest guys I have ever met. He always went out of his way to make sure that those who surrounded him was happy. He loved you Tam, so very much. I am simply heartbroken for you and for the kids and your families. Jeff touched so many lives, so deeply, it is unimaginable to me that the kids will never truly understand how wonderful he was. I feel blessed to have known him and your families. I am praying for you all.
All my love, Jen
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Jeff will be greatly missed i really enjoyed the time i was able to spend fishing with him. He was a specail person to all who knew him.
Don & Cindy Cunningham
Jeff was always super cool to me and will be missed and never forgotten. Jeff was the most talked about guy on the Reach, he was the BEST! It will not be the same without him.RT
Tami:
If you or the kids need anything at all, please do not hesitate to call. My heart, prayers and sincere condolences go out to you.
You are all loved very much, by many many people. We all want to help and want you to know that we are here to help you now and in the future.
Tami, Bless you and the little ones. A day at a time.
Jeff taught us alot about fishing the Reach and Drano.
We share in your grief and fishing the Reach for us will never be same.If there is fishing in Heaven those fish better be prepared.God speed to you Jeff.
I could literally sit here and write page after page of Jeff Johansen memories. The countless hours spent hunting, fishing, and camping with Jeff are some of the best times I have ever had. It is hard for me to isolate any one time that is memorable about Jeff when there are so many. The one thing that sticks out in my mind right now is the time I spent with Jeff when he was building his first guide boat. He was working construction at the time. He would stop by my house after work to pick me up in his truck that he called labamba, it was a Jeff thing. Off we would go to the Pasco boat basin were we spent hours together whittling away at a dream that Jeff had for a long time. I will never forget that time I was able to spend with Jeff nor will I forget how excited he was the first time we splashed that boat in the river. That was the start of something special. Jeff went on to fulfill his dream and become one of the most well known fishing guides of our time. He had a presence on the river like none other. It was a privilege to know Jeff, a true inspiration to anyone fortunate enough to have met him. Jeff was a friend and a mentor to me and he will be greatly missed. Our hearts go out to each and every family member. We know one thing is for sure, his spirit, that smile, and that laugh will live on forever.
Steve, Natalie and Sophia Maiuri
Tammy, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May the Lord surround you with His Love and His Peace giving you strength for the days and weeks to follow. My prayers are with you and your family.
We are all going to miss Jeff very much. The summer won’t be same with out him. We are going to plant a tree at our campground in his
memory . We send our love to all of Jeff’s family and friends.
For those of you that don’t know of me, I am Steve Strickland’s nephew. My deepest thoughts go out to your famliy Jeff, you were , to say the least , a very generous and caring man, you will be missed by alot of people……fish on
I have known Jeff since he was 5 years old. He always had a smile on his face and usually a fishing pole in his hand. What a fine man you became. It breaks my heart to think that as I am fishing on the Reach that I will not see your smiling face and your boat racing to the next fishing hole. I have no doubt that you will be busy teaching all those old salty dogs all the new tricks you have learned and been able to share with others & what fishing stories you will be able to tell. My heart goes out to your folks: Ross & Vida, Janice & Mike, your sisters, Tiff & Amy & Michelle and brothers Jared & RJ but most of all to your wife Tammy,Riley and Lillie.
You will be missed greatly
I’m so saddened to hear the news of Jeff. He was a hero of mine. He was an inspiration to me, as a fisherman and a person. He was the most giving person, caring deeply about everyone. He took such good care of everyone he took out fishing.
I’ll miss Jeff terribly. My thoughts and heart are with the family.
Tammie, Our thoughts and prayers are with you & your family.
“Behind every beginning lies a hidden end…To which there is no escape! At his difficult hour, when the pain is so hard to bear…I hope time heals your sorrow & may the warm memories remain!”
relatives of Terry & Dale Gunter
I never met Jeff, but always heard great things about him. He will be missed on the water
Jeff was a fine and generous person. I had the pleasure of fishing with him and attended his seminars to learn from the best guide I’ve known. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
It has been years since I’ve seen Jeff, possibly even since High School. I often come to visit my parents and go boating. I have thought numerous times about Jeff and was really impressed that he managed to turn fun into a job. If anyone could do that it was Jeff. I don’t have a paticular memory to share, just that I always remember feeling happy around him. So sorry to hear the news.
I was very sad when I heard
about his sudden death. I had the pleasure of meeting and fishing with him. He will now be teaching all those in the big sea how to have a great time and catch those big ones. God Bless everyone!
I first met Jeff when we both worked at Safeway when Jeff was in high school, immediately becoming friends. We always had a good time playing acorn squash football in the back room.
Many years later, Jeff and I were reunited when we both hired on with the railroad. We ended up being roommates in Kansas together. Many times we would stay up late and exchange stories and talk about old times having a few beers and eating pickled eggs.
Jeff is a legend around the Tri-Cities. He has touched thousands of lives with his charm and good spirit. He always put others ahead of himself, especially his clients. I am blessed to have known Jeff and call him a friend, I will miss him and always reflect on the memories.
Tammy, Riley, Lillie, and to Jeff’s family, I express my deepest condolences for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
~Craig
Isdell Family,
We’re so sorry to hear of Jeff’s passing, Grandma June/Jenny and my thoughts and prayers go out to you and Jeff’s family. We haven’t been up to speed on the family but it sounds like Jeff did more in his life than most can imagine. Take care, Love the Smith’s
My sincere condolences to family and friends. Hopefully you can all take comfort in the fond memories you have. Jeff, R.I.P. and tight lines.
I was shocked and saddend to hear of Jeff’s passing and want to pass my condolences to his family.
I was close to Jeff during high school and a time after before our lives took us in different directions. I moved back to the tri-cities about five years ago and was able to run into Jeff while we were both working at the railroad. We visited and caught up on our lives. I was comforted to hear how happy he was with his lifefamily.
Knowing that Jeff was able to fish and be the outdoorsman that he was, I thought it fitting that he was able to make it his career. As teenagers I fished and hunted all the time with Jeff. Many of these trips are among my favorite memories of my life. Back then we were learning how to fish, hunt, and camp. These experiences shaped us and I have always felt lucky to have had quality friends like Jeff to grow up with. I was close to Jeff when we were young and right now I’m full of emotions and memories.
Tucannon about a thousand times, sometimes fish sometimes not.
Camping at bateman island on school nights, catfish.
Hound Dog Slough. No Comment
The Pot Holes, never really knowing where we were and not caring.
Hunting pheasants on the way to school and cooking them up on the hibachi in the school parking lot for lunch.
Sitting in duck blinds when it was too cold and we never really had the warmest clothing, so what.
Practicing our duck calls on our lunch breaks down at columbia point…..and on and on.
My life is better because I knew you.
I will miss you Jeff.
I will never forget you and the memory of you.
We will all miss Jeff. He touched so many lives. I haven’t seen Jeff in many years as I am no longer in the area but have many fond memories of my cousin. Christmas Eve was always a highlight in our early years. I had the opportunity to see him one summer during a break from college. It was great to see him all grown up. I am sure I speak for many when I say he will be sorely missed. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Jenny Fawcett Hedges
Jeff’s passing breaks my heart as I remember camping at Mt Rainer and other places many years ago. Although I have not seen Jeff in many years I always followed his career and was very proud of him. The whole familiy is in my heart and in our prayers.
To the family of Jeff:
As you and the world knows Jeff was an amazing man, the obituary expressed so well who he was to so many people. We knew Jeff, because of Ryan,then in recent years because of Ron working with Tami, and of course, all those birthday parties for Grandkids. He will live in our hearts forever, and be remembered for his kindness and passion for life.
Our love and prayers are with you………… Ron & Linda
Jeff was a great father and would do anything he could for friends and family. He was a guide who really knew his business too. WE will say a prayer for Tami, Riley and Lillie. We will all miss him alot.
Our hearts are heavy from the news of Jeff’s passing. Our summers at the bait shack in Chinook just won’t be the same. We looked forward to Jeff’s daily visits. He parked his truck, went to get his drink from the Chinook Coffee Co. and then came over to square up and talk about his day. Jeff was always upbeat and happy to share his knowledge of fishing with anyone who asked. Whenever Jeff’s name was mentioned we all agreed you couldn’t find a nicer guy. We will miss him.
Our prayers go out to Jeff’s family.
Jack and Andrea Marsh
Jeff,
I’m realy gonna miss you buddy. I can’t even begin to tell you how well respected you were amongst your peers. I will miss seeing you on the river, always trading the latest fishing reports. I will never foget you pardner. God Bless you and your family. My heat pours out to you all…
Jason Schultz
We would like to give our sympathy and condolences to Jeff’s family.I worked with Jeff on the railroad and fished on the reach with Jeff.He was the best fisherman I ever met and he was always laughing and smiling. The world is alot worse with his passing. Jeff, thank you for being my friend, it was a great honor. I’ll never forget you Jeff. May the fish always be biting. you’ll always be in our prayers.
Tami, Riley, and Lilly your dad was awesome and fun to hang out with. Your dad was great and always took us fishing and supplied us with awesome fish to smoke and eat. I am glad I got to meet him. I have put you in my prayers. God bless you. from Morgan
Hey Jeff, Guess What? My dad told me that I was one of very few people who got to net a fish out of your boat. Thanks for letting me net David’s 15 lb steelhead with you. You hooked it, right? Thanks for taking me on drives and boat rides when you where in Lewiston. You were awesome. Thanks also for the boots from Riley, my Riley Boots.
Peace Out Jeff.
Tami, Riley and Lilly the three little onse say hi and are praying for you. Max wanted me to tell the story of Jeff carrying rods into our house. Of course Max saw this and had to ask me how many fishing rods I had, “Well Max, dad has four or five fishing poles.” JEFF, how many do you have. “Max, I have about 60” Jeff said. Max looked at me and Jeff and said, “you fish with Jeff, right dad” We both laughed and I said “YES I DO MAX.” One thing about the rods, I have about 20 if you count all the Scooby Doo, Barbie, and Batman rods. One thing about Jeff, not many people have more fishin’ gear than him.
As Max would say, Peace Out!
Tami, Riley, Lilly your dad helped me catch my first steelhead and I enjoyed listening to all his stories. I put you in my prayers. God Bless you and please come and visit us! Love, Kate “Fish Slayer” Ashe
Our heart goes out to ALL of Jeff’s family and close friends.
He was truly an amazing man with great talent and love for his family.
Your deeply in our thoughts and prayers.
To Janice, Tami and Family
We didn’t know Jeff, but I worked for his mother Janice at Fluor and have found that she is indeed an exceptional human being.
Although we started off in conflict, it soon came to my attention that my perception of Janice was wrong and I gained the utmost respect for her.
After reading some of Jeff’s memorials, I can see that it must run in the family.
I know what personal loss is and I would like to say everything will get better over time, but I have found that everyone has to deal with the loss in their own way.
As with Jeff and Tami’s children, it is important for them to see how the famly celebrates Jeff’s life as well as letting them know how important they were to him.
In parting, my family wishes yours deepest condolences and best wishes and you will all be in our minds and hearts.
I was devastated when I received the news about Jeff. I have only known Jeff for about 8 years, but in that time he had became a friend, mentor, and I idolized him. But before I really met Jeff I knew who he was because he was the guy that caught all the fish we called him Johan the Man. That early morning coffee mug wave up on the Reach will be missed dearly. The way that Jeff touched everybody’s life is unbelievable that guy had a heart, and his spirit will live on. I will miss Jeff very much, Jeff’s Gone Fishing. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. God Bless
Tami – Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and the kids, and the entire family. We first met Jeff about 8 years ago when my dad Floyd booked us on a fall chinook trip with him on the reach. You would have thought Jeff had known us for 50 years. I looked forward to Jeff’s company as much as the fishing. Since then, we fished with Jeff a couple times a year, and wouldn’t trade it for anything. We enjoyed having Jeff come up to Colville and deer hunt with the gang. I am sure Jeff is tying hooks right now. Riley and Lillie, you dad was a great man, who touched many lives. God bless you all. Jeff and Michel Pitts
tami, I cant even tell you how missed he will be. Jeff’s soul is going to be joining some pretty great people. our prayers are with you and the kids. love you.
Tami, Riley, and Lily – you are in my prayers and thoughts every day. Remember how much you loved Jeff, he will always be in your hearts and memories. Deb
Tami,
My heart goes out to you and the kids. How very sad it is that such a good and fun man is gone. I worked with Jeff at the railroad and fished with him afew times. What a great guy, always smiling and keeping whatever he was doing fun. Try to take comfort in knowing how many lives he touched. I feel lucky to have known him.
Words cannot express our appreciation to your family Tami for sharing Jeff with us while he was over fishing for steelhead on the Snake River. We were all excited for Jeff’s arrival in the Fall and very dissappointed to see him leave when fishing ended. Tami, we were more blessed with someone than just a friend as Jeff, Riley, Lilly and You are a huge part of our family. Words cannot express the hurt we feel and the heartfelt prayers from our family at dinner time for you and your family. To say the least Jeff will be missed at our house and all the great times we had coming down and staying with your family and fishing the Reach for falls, or Jeff’s new passion of walleye fishing.
I pray that we can have an influence on your families life as Jeff had on ours. We have seven kids who miss Jeff dearly. There are not many people who would be willing to take a family fishing, let alone a family of nine. Jeff, you are a great husband, father, son, brother and most of all a FRIEND who will be missed throughout my lifetime. Thanks for all the great memories and treating our kids like your own.
We will never forget Jeff, his sense of humor or his love for life and the outdoors. You were simply the best Jeff. May God Bless you and help all of us cope with your loss. We will miss you and Love You forever.
Tami, I am so sad. I cannot even imagine what you are going through. My heart breaks for all of you. Wish I could be there but you are in my prayers…always. Love to Lillie and Riley.
Hugs,
Danielle Renee Donnelly
daughter to Terry & Dale Gunter
Tam,
Just call out my name and you know where ever I am, I’ll come running, just to see you again.
Winter, spring, summer or fall, all you have to do is call and I’ll be there…you got a friend.
I love you Tam and I’m here, you really do have a friend.
Sue
Tammy and kids, we love you all and send all the prayers we can for comfort and gods hands around you. Sorry for your loss.
Martin and Laura Gilton
We sure loved Jeff. I never had a chance to formally meet Tami,Lillie,or Riley but I felt like I knew them because of all the great stories he told us about them. He could remember in great detail his honeymoon to kauai. He told us about the great restaurants, beaches, and things they did. You could see the enjoyment in his face, about the time he spent with his wife there. He talked about taking his family back someday. He always had great stories about the kids. He had a chance to take sometime off this winter and talked about the great time he got to spend with his family. Jeff was tying some walleye rigs and Riley called out to Tami “Mom, Mom can you get my tackle box down. I need to get my lures dialed in.” Like father like son. Jeff loved his family so much. He always treated us so well. He knew how much I loved to fish. He knew I would fish until dark if I had the chance and he would never say time to go. He would wait for me. I new his love for his family so I always tried to quit at a reasonable time, if it wasn’t a limit out by noon or sooner day. One time in hell’s caynon it was a high of twenty degrees, ice on the boat, lines would freeze up, sun blocked by the caynon. We fished all day and it was past four and Jeff said “Man you guys are tough.” I looked at him and said “I wanted to quit three hours ago when I lost all the feeling in my body.” I was waiting for Jeff to say lets quit, he was waiting for me to quit,but that’s how he was. He would sit out there run up and down that river freezing, so I could have have a good time. He treated us so good. I consider it a gift from God, to have known Jeff and fished with him. Every trip I took with him was memorable. Thank you Johansen family for allowing us to spend time with Jeff. You will be in our prayers. God Bless
We are in deep suffering over this loss. It is taking our breath away from this pain.
We love you all so much. Jeff was a dear and wonderful son-in-law. He will always be with us in our hearts and mind forever.
Please know we are and always will be there for you. Our home is your home.
Love, kisses and hugs.
Terry Grandma & Dad Grandpa Gunter
Jeff was a great person. My prayers go out to you and your family.
I never met any of the family but knew Jeff as I worked with him on the railroad.I had the pleasure of fishing with him a number of times. About 2 fishing trips a year my Dad and Brother,sister in law, niece and her husband would take a guided trip and we made some “thankful” never ending memories. To the family I would like to say God has his reasons unknown to us but as Romans 8:28 says “All things work together for good to them that love God to them who are called according to His Purpose. As i see it God had a purpose for taking Jeff and it was a good one. Just knowing him was an honor. I will miss him dearely.
Doug Thiel
Tami & family – I was so saddened to hear of Jeff’s passing. I met him only once at my brother Brad’s home. So many of my family members were able to spend time with Jeff out fishing and the stories and pictures they’ve shared looked like so much fun. The most recent trip was just weeks ago when Brad and my parents went Salmon fishing with Jeff. I know Jeff was a huge blessing in so many lives and my family will be praying for you and your kids. God Bless!
Marie & Family
Jeff you will be miss. I am going to miss seeing you guys down at the camp ground just out side of long beach salmon fishing.
Walleye fishing wont be the same with out you down there with Riley in the boat. The canyon on the snake will not be the same without the big blue north river boat. Riley and Lillie if you ever want to hear about your father and how wounderful of a person he was feel free to call me!
We will miss him so very much!
Doug Richert 360 490 2521
Hells Canyon Sprot Fishing
I considered Jeff to be one of my favorite people I had ever been around. I worked with him almost every day, when he actually worked at the Railroad. HE and I got to know each other well and he gave me tips and insight in my fishing. I am a Bass fisherman and he gave me a hard time because of it. I am inspired by Jeff. HE did what he enjoyed and was still able to touch each person who ever had contact with him. I hope to start my own guide service one day for Bass and I can only hope to channel Jeff’s personality, kindness, and skill with people.
Knowing Jeff, has made me want to be a better person.
When Riley is old enough…..I would like to take him Bass fishing and tell heim a few stories about how great his dad was to me and my family.
I can be reached at home at 509-586-8435….and would like to help if there is something I can do. I know that this has been a shock for everyone and my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Jeff Grimes
That was a great service last Saturday to a great man. I feel so fortunate to have known him and to have spent parts of seven years or so fishing with him. Always the cheerful guy which I could not understand for someone who got up early most mornings, entertained fisherman all day, and then went home or to his trailer to tie more fishing gear. His secret was he loved what he was doing. It just did not get any better than to be out on the water on a sunny day with Jeff. So, thank you Tami, Riley and Lilly for letting him do it and sharing him with the rest of us.
i just resently moved to montana ijust wanted to send my thoughts and prayers i never personaly meet jeff but many of my friends knew him and thought the world of him godbless the whole family. grace to you and peace from god our father and the lord jesus christ. blessed be the god and father of our lord jesus the father of mercies and god of all comfort who comforts us in all our tribulation that we may be able to comfort those who are in trouble with the which we ourselves are comforted by god…. god bless
I just read of jeffs passing and it makes me very sad I wasnt there to mourn with everyone.I knew jeff all threw high school and can tell you everyone loved him.There wasnt a time I saw him that he did not make me laugh.the world will be a sadder place without him in it.Nick Guse
I was so sad to hear that Jeff passed away. I have lots of great memories of him. He was always cheerful and smiling and just a friendly guy. I met him in the sixth grade, at Jason Lee. I remember he had this big mop of curly brown hair and…that smile. He always made me laugh. I remember sitting with him at the park across from Jason Lee and watching softball games I think there was a mutual crush, but it never really went anywhere. I remember lots of good parties a party wasn’t a party unless Jeff was there and I have thought about him a lot thru the years. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, children, and the rest of his family.
IM GOING TO MISS SEEING JEFF FISHING ON THE SNAKE RIVER. HE WAS ONE OF THE BEST. AS FOR MYSELF BEING A GUIDE AND ALL THE OTHER GUIDES ON THE SNAKE WE ALL MISS HIM AND WE WILL THINK OF HIM WHEN WE ARE FISHING ON THE RIVER. I HOPE YOU GET THE FISHING ALL DIALED IN UP THERE SO YOU CAN SHOW US WHEN GOD NETS US. MY GOD BE WITH YOU. MIKE KELLY FISH REAPER
Tammy, I just wanted to express my deepest condolences for your loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Tam, Jan, Mike and family:
I can not express to you how sad I am at what has happened. I knew Jeff for close to 20 years and considered him a true friend. Honestly, Jeff was one of the nicest guys I have ever met. He always went out of his way to make sure that those who surrounded him was happy. He loved you Tam, so very much. I am simply heartbroken for you and for the kids and your families. Jeff touched so many lives, so deeply, it is unimaginable to me that the kids will never truly understand how wonderful he was. I feel blessed to have known him and your families. I am praying for you all.
All my love, Jen
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Jeff will be greatly missed i really enjoyed the time i was able to spend fishing with him. He was a specail person to all who knew him.
Don & Cindy Cunningham
Jeff was always super cool to me and will be missed and never forgotten. Jeff was the most talked about guy on the Reach, he was the BEST! It will not be the same without him.RT
Tami:
If you or the kids need anything at all, please do not hesitate to call. My heart, prayers and sincere condolences go out to you.
You are all loved very much, by many many people. We all want to help and want you to know that we are here to help you now and in the future.
Tami, Bless you and the little ones. A day at a time.
Jeff taught us alot about fishing the Reach and Drano.
We share in your grief and fishing the Reach for us will never be same.If there is fishing in Heaven those fish better be prepared.God speed to you Jeff.
I could literally sit here and write page after page of Jeff Johansen memories. The countless hours spent hunting, fishing, and camping with Jeff are some of the best times I have ever had. It is hard for me to isolate any one time that is memorable about Jeff when there are so many. The one thing that sticks out in my mind right now is the time I spent with Jeff when he was building his first guide boat. He was working construction at the time. He would stop by my house after work to pick me up in his truck that he called labamba, it was a Jeff thing. Off we would go to the Pasco boat basin were we spent hours together whittling away at a dream that Jeff had for a long time. I will never forget that time I was able to spend with Jeff nor will I forget how excited he was the first time we splashed that boat in the river. That was the start of something special. Jeff went on to fulfill his dream and become one of the most well known fishing guides of our time. He had a presence on the river like none other. It was a privilege to know Jeff, a true inspiration to anyone fortunate enough to have met him. Jeff was a friend and a mentor to me and he will be greatly missed. Our hearts go out to each and every family member. We know one thing is for sure, his spirit, that smile, and that laugh will live on forever.
Steve, Natalie and Sophia Maiuri
Tammy, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May the Lord surround you with His Love and His Peace giving you strength for the days and weeks to follow. My prayers are with you and your family.
We are all going to miss Jeff very much. The summer won’t be same with out him. We are going to plant a tree at our campground in his
memory . We send our love to all of Jeff’s family and friends.
For those of you that don’t know of me, I am Steve Strickland’s nephew. My deepest thoughts go out to your famliy Jeff, you were , to say the least , a very generous and caring man, you will be missed by alot of people……fish on
I have known Jeff since he was 5 years old. He always had a smile on his face and usually a fishing pole in his hand. What a fine man you became. It breaks my heart to think that as I am fishing on the Reach that I will not see your smiling face and your boat racing to the next fishing hole. I have no doubt that you will be busy teaching all those old salty dogs all the new tricks you have learned and been able to share with others & what fishing stories you will be able to tell. My heart goes out to your folks: Ross & Vida, Janice & Mike, your sisters, Tiff & Amy & Michelle and brothers Jared & RJ but most of all to your wife Tammy,Riley and Lillie.
You will be missed greatly
I’m so saddened to hear the news of Jeff. He was a hero of mine. He was an inspiration to me, as a fisherman and a person. He was the most giving person, caring deeply about everyone. He took such good care of everyone he took out fishing.
I’ll miss Jeff terribly. My thoughts and heart are with the family.
Tammie, Our thoughts and prayers are with you & your family.
“Behind every beginning lies a hidden end…To which there is no escape! At his difficult hour, when the pain is so hard to bear…I hope time heals your sorrow & may the warm memories remain!”
relatives of Terry & Dale Gunter
I never met Jeff, but always heard great things about him. He will be missed on the water
Jeff was a fine and generous person. I had the pleasure of fishing with him and attended his seminars to learn from the best guide I’ve known. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
It has been years since I’ve seen Jeff, possibly even since High School. I often come to visit my parents and go boating. I have thought numerous times about Jeff and was really impressed that he managed to turn fun into a job. If anyone could do that it was Jeff. I don’t have a paticular memory to share, just that I always remember feeling happy around him. So sorry to hear the news.
I was very sad when I heard
about his sudden death. I had the pleasure of meeting and fishing with him. He will now be teaching all those in the big sea how to have a great time and catch those big ones. God Bless everyone!
I first met Jeff when we both worked at Safeway when Jeff was in high school, immediately becoming friends. We always had a good time playing acorn squash football in the back room.
Many years later, Jeff and I were reunited when we both hired on with the railroad. We ended up being roommates in Kansas together. Many times we would stay up late and exchange stories and talk about old times having a few beers and eating pickled eggs.
Jeff is a legend around the Tri-Cities. He has touched thousands of lives with his charm and good spirit. He always put others ahead of himself, especially his clients. I am blessed to have known Jeff and call him a friend, I will miss him and always reflect on the memories.
Tammy, Riley, Lillie, and to Jeff’s family, I express my deepest condolences for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
~Craig
Isdell Family,
We’re so sorry to hear of Jeff’s passing, Grandma June/Jenny and my thoughts and prayers go out to you and Jeff’s family. We haven’t been up to speed on the family but it sounds like Jeff did more in his life than most can imagine. Take care, Love the Smith’s
My sincere condolences to family and friends. Hopefully you can all take comfort in the fond memories you have. Jeff, R.I.P. and tight lines.
I was shocked and saddend to hear of Jeff’s passing and want to pass my condolences to his family.
I was close to Jeff during high school and a time after before our lives took us in different directions. I moved back to the tri-cities about five years ago and was able to run into Jeff while we were both working at the railroad. We visited and caught up on our lives. I was comforted to hear how happy he was with his lifefamily.
Knowing that Jeff was able to fish and be the outdoorsman that he was, I thought it fitting that he was able to make it his career. As teenagers I fished and hunted all the time with Jeff. Many of these trips are among my favorite memories of my life. Back then we were learning how to fish, hunt, and camp. These experiences shaped us and I have always felt lucky to have had quality friends like Jeff to grow up with. I was close to Jeff when we were young and right now I’m full of emotions and memories.
Tucannon about a thousand times, sometimes fish sometimes not.
Camping at bateman island on school nights, catfish.
Hound Dog Slough. No Comment
The Pot Holes, never really knowing where we were and not caring.
Hunting pheasants on the way to school and cooking them up on the hibachi in the school parking lot for lunch.
Sitting in duck blinds when it was too cold and we never really had the warmest clothing, so what.
Practicing our duck calls on our lunch breaks down at columbia point…..and on and on.
My life is better because I knew you.
I will miss you Jeff.
I will never forget you and the memory of you.
We will all miss Jeff. He touched so many lives. I haven’t seen Jeff in many years as I am no longer in the area but have many fond memories of my cousin. Christmas Eve was always a highlight in our early years. I had the opportunity to see him one summer during a break from college. It was great to see him all grown up. I am sure I speak for many when I say he will be sorely missed. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Jenny Fawcett Hedges
Jeff’s passing breaks my heart as I remember camping at Mt Rainer and other places many years ago. Although I have not seen Jeff in many years I always followed his career and was very proud of him. The whole familiy is in my heart and in our prayers.
To the family of Jeff:
As you and the world knows Jeff was an amazing man, the obituary expressed so well who he was to so many people. We knew Jeff, because of Ryan,then in recent years because of Ron working with Tami, and of course, all those birthday parties for Grandkids. He will live in our hearts forever, and be remembered for his kindness and passion for life.
Our love and prayers are with you………… Ron & Linda
Jeff was a great father and would do anything he could for friends and family. He was a guide who really knew his business too. WE will say a prayer for Tami, Riley and Lillie. We will all miss him alot.
Our hearts are heavy from the news of Jeff’s passing. Our summers at the bait shack in Chinook just won’t be the same. We looked forward to Jeff’s daily visits. He parked his truck, went to get his drink from the Chinook Coffee Co. and then came over to square up and talk about his day. Jeff was always upbeat and happy to share his knowledge of fishing with anyone who asked. Whenever Jeff’s name was mentioned we all agreed you couldn’t find a nicer guy. We will miss him.
Our prayers go out to Jeff’s family.
Jack and Andrea Marsh
Jeff,
I’m realy gonna miss you buddy. I can’t even begin to tell you how well respected you were amongst your peers. I will miss seeing you on the river, always trading the latest fishing reports. I will never foget you pardner. God Bless you and your family. My heat pours out to you all…
Jason Schultz
We would like to give our sympathy and condolences to Jeff’s family.I worked with Jeff on the railroad and fished on the reach with Jeff.He was the best fisherman I ever met and he was always laughing and smiling. The world is alot worse with his passing. Jeff, thank you for being my friend, it was a great honor. I’ll never forget you Jeff. May the fish always be biting. you’ll always be in our prayers.
Tami, Riley, and Lilly your dad was awesome and fun to hang out with. Your dad was great and always took us fishing and supplied us with awesome fish to smoke and eat. I am glad I got to meet him. I have put you in my prayers. God bless you. from Morgan
Hey Jeff, Guess What? My dad told me that I was one of very few people who got to net a fish out of your boat. Thanks for letting me net David’s 15 lb steelhead with you. You hooked it, right? Thanks for taking me on drives and boat rides when you where in Lewiston. You were awesome. Thanks also for the boots from Riley, my Riley Boots.
Peace Out Jeff.
Tami, Riley and Lilly the three little onse say hi and are praying for you. Max wanted me to tell the story of Jeff carrying rods into our house. Of course Max saw this and had to ask me how many fishing rods I had, “Well Max, dad has four or five fishing poles.” JEFF, how many do you have. “Max, I have about 60” Jeff said. Max looked at me and Jeff and said, “you fish with Jeff, right dad” We both laughed and I said “YES I DO MAX.” One thing about the rods, I have about 20 if you count all the Scooby Doo, Barbie, and Batman rods. One thing about Jeff, not many people have more fishin’ gear than him.
As Max would say, Peace Out!
Tami, Riley, Lilly your dad helped me catch my first steelhead and I enjoyed listening to all his stories. I put you in my prayers. God Bless you and please come and visit us! Love, Kate “Fish Slayer” Ashe
Our heart goes out to ALL of Jeff’s family and close friends.
He was truly an amazing man with great talent and love for his family.
Your deeply in our thoughts and prayers.
To Janice, Tami and Family
We didn’t know Jeff, but I worked for his mother Janice at Fluor and have found that she is indeed an exceptional human being.
Although we started off in conflict, it soon came to my attention that my perception of Janice was wrong and I gained the utmost respect for her.
After reading some of Jeff’s memorials, I can see that it must run in the family.
I know what personal loss is and I would like to say everything will get better over time, but I have found that everyone has to deal with the loss in their own way.
As with Jeff and Tami’s children, it is important for them to see how the famly celebrates Jeff’s life as well as letting them know how important they were to him.
In parting, my family wishes yours deepest condolences and best wishes and you will all be in our minds and hearts.
I was devastated when I received the news about Jeff. I have only known Jeff for about 8 years, but in that time he had became a friend, mentor, and I idolized him. But before I really met Jeff I knew who he was because he was the guy that caught all the fish we called him Johan the Man. That early morning coffee mug wave up on the Reach will be missed dearly. The way that Jeff touched everybody’s life is unbelievable that guy had a heart, and his spirit will live on. I will miss Jeff very much, Jeff’s Gone Fishing. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. God Bless
Tami – Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and the kids, and the entire family. We first met Jeff about 8 years ago when my dad Floyd booked us on a fall chinook trip with him on the reach. You would have thought Jeff had known us for 50 years. I looked forward to Jeff’s company as much as the fishing. Since then, we fished with Jeff a couple times a year, and wouldn’t trade it for anything. We enjoyed having Jeff come up to Colville and deer hunt with the gang. I am sure Jeff is tying hooks right now. Riley and Lillie, you dad was a great man, who touched many lives. God bless you all. Jeff and Michel Pitts
tami, I cant even tell you how missed he will be. Jeff’s soul is going to be joining some pretty great people. our prayers are with you and the kids. love you.
Tami, Riley, and Lily – you are in my prayers and thoughts every day. Remember how much you loved Jeff, he will always be in your hearts and memories. Deb
Tami,
My heart goes out to you and the kids. How very sad it is that such a good and fun man is gone. I worked with Jeff at the railroad and fished with him afew times. What a great guy, always smiling and keeping whatever he was doing fun. Try to take comfort in knowing how many lives he touched. I feel lucky to have known him.
Words cannot express our appreciation to your family Tami for sharing Jeff with us while he was over fishing for steelhead on the Snake River. We were all excited for Jeff’s arrival in the Fall and very dissappointed to see him leave when fishing ended. Tami, we were more blessed with someone than just a friend as Jeff, Riley, Lilly and You are a huge part of our family. Words cannot express the hurt we feel and the heartfelt prayers from our family at dinner time for you and your family. To say the least Jeff will be missed at our house and all the great times we had coming down and staying with your family and fishing the Reach for falls, or Jeff’s new passion of walleye fishing.
I pray that we can have an influence on your families life as Jeff had on ours. We have seven kids who miss Jeff dearly. There are not many people who would be willing to take a family fishing, let alone a family of nine. Jeff, you are a great husband, father, son, brother and most of all a FRIEND who will be missed throughout my lifetime. Thanks for all the great memories and treating our kids like your own.
We will never forget Jeff, his sense of humor or his love for life and the outdoors. You were simply the best Jeff. May God Bless you and help all of us cope with your loss. We will miss you and Love You forever.
Tami, I am so sad. I cannot even imagine what you are going through. My heart breaks for all of you. Wish I could be there but you are in my prayers…always. Love to Lillie and Riley.
Hugs,
Danielle Renee Donnelly
daughter to Terry & Dale Gunter
Tam,
Just call out my name and you know where ever I am, I’ll come running, just to see you again.
Winter, spring, summer or fall, all you have to do is call and I’ll be there…you got a friend.
I love you Tam and I’m here, you really do have a friend.
Sue
Tammy and kids, we love you all and send all the prayers we can for comfort and gods hands around you. Sorry for your loss.
Martin and Laura Gilton
We sure loved Jeff. I never had a chance to formally meet Tami,Lillie,or Riley but I felt like I knew them because of all the great stories he told us about them. He could remember in great detail his honeymoon to kauai. He told us about the great restaurants, beaches, and things they did. You could see the enjoyment in his face, about the time he spent with his wife there. He talked about taking his family back someday. He always had great stories about the kids. He had a chance to take sometime off this winter and talked about the great time he got to spend with his family. Jeff was tying some walleye rigs and Riley called out to Tami “Mom, Mom can you get my tackle box down. I need to get my lures dialed in.” Like father like son. Jeff loved his family so much. He always treated us so well. He knew how much I loved to fish. He knew I would fish until dark if I had the chance and he would never say time to go. He would wait for me. I new his love for his family so I always tried to quit at a reasonable time, if it wasn’t a limit out by noon or sooner day. One time in hell’s caynon it was a high of twenty degrees, ice on the boat, lines would freeze up, sun blocked by the caynon. We fished all day and it was past four and Jeff said “Man you guys are tough.” I looked at him and said “I wanted to quit three hours ago when I lost all the feeling in my body.” I was waiting for Jeff to say lets quit, he was waiting for me to quit,but that’s how he was. He would sit out there run up and down that river freezing, so I could have have a good time. He treated us so good. I consider it a gift from God, to have known Jeff and fished with him. Every trip I took with him was memorable. Thank you Johansen family for allowing us to spend time with Jeff. You will be in our prayers. God Bless
We are in deep suffering over this loss. It is taking our breath away from this pain.
We love you all so much. Jeff was a dear and wonderful son-in-law. He will always be with us in our hearts and mind forever.
Please know we are and always will be there for you. Our home is your home.
Love, kisses and hugs.
Terry Grandma & Dad Grandpa Gunter
Jeff was a great person. My prayers go out to you and your family.
I never met any of the family but knew Jeff as I worked with him on the railroad.I had the pleasure of fishing with him a number of times. About 2 fishing trips a year my Dad and Brother,sister in law, niece and her husband would take a guided trip and we made some “thankful” never ending memories. To the family I would like to say God has his reasons unknown to us but as Romans 8:28 says “All things work together for good to them that love God to them who are called according to His Purpose. As i see it God had a purpose for taking Jeff and it was a good one. Just knowing him was an honor. I will miss him dearely.
Doug Thiel
Tami & family – I was so saddened to hear of Jeff’s passing. I met him only once at my brother Brad’s home. So many of my family members were able to spend time with Jeff out fishing and the stories and pictures they’ve shared looked like so much fun. The most recent trip was just weeks ago when Brad and my parents went Salmon fishing with Jeff. I know Jeff was a huge blessing in so many lives and my family will be praying for you and your kids. God Bless!
Marie & Family
Jeff you will be miss. I am going to miss seeing you guys down at the camp ground just out side of long beach salmon fishing.
Walleye fishing wont be the same with out you down there with Riley in the boat. The canyon on the snake will not be the same without the big blue north river boat. Riley and Lillie if you ever want to hear about your father and how wounderful of a person he was feel free to call me!
We will miss him so very much!
Doug Richert 360 490 2521
Hells Canyon Sprot Fishing
I considered Jeff to be one of my favorite people I had ever been around. I worked with him almost every day, when he actually worked at the Railroad. HE and I got to know each other well and he gave me tips and insight in my fishing. I am a Bass fisherman and he gave me a hard time because of it. I am inspired by Jeff. HE did what he enjoyed and was still able to touch each person who ever had contact with him. I hope to start my own guide service one day for Bass and I can only hope to channel Jeff’s personality, kindness, and skill with people.
Knowing Jeff, has made me want to be a better person.
When Riley is old enough…..I would like to take him Bass fishing and tell heim a few stories about how great his dad was to me and my family.
I can be reached at home at 509-586-8435….and would like to help if there is something I can do. I know that this has been a shock for everyone and my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Jeff Grimes
That was a great service last Saturday to a great man. I feel so fortunate to have known him and to have spent parts of seven years or so fishing with him. Always the cheerful guy which I could not understand for someone who got up early most mornings, entertained fisherman all day, and then went home or to his trailer to tie more fishing gear. His secret was he loved what he was doing. It just did not get any better than to be out on the water on a sunny day with Jeff. So, thank you Tami, Riley and Lilly for letting him do it and sharing him with the rest of us.
i just resently moved to montana ijust wanted to send my thoughts and prayers i never personaly meet jeff but many of my friends knew him and thought the world of him godbless the whole family. grace to you and peace from god our father and the lord jesus christ. blessed be the god and father of our lord jesus the father of mercies and god of all comfort who comforts us in all our tribulation that we may be able to comfort those who are in trouble with the which we ourselves are comforted by god…. god bless
I just read of jeffs passing and it makes me very sad I wasnt there to mourn with everyone.I knew jeff all threw high school and can tell you everyone loved him.There wasnt a time I saw him that he did not make me laugh.the world will be a sadder place without him in it.Nick Guse
I was so sad to hear that Jeff passed away. I have lots of great memories of him. He was always cheerful and smiling and just a friendly guy. I met him in the sixth grade, at Jason Lee. I remember he had this big mop of curly brown hair and…that smile. He always made me laugh. I remember sitting with him at the park across from Jason Lee and watching softball games I think there was a mutual crush, but it never really went anywhere. I remember lots of good parties a party wasn’t a party unless Jeff was there and I have thought about him a lot thru the years. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, children, and the rest of his family.
Tami & family, I just learned of Jeff’s passing a few days ago and words cannot describe how terribly sad and sorry I am for your loss. What a vibrant and wonderful man he was, always good for a laugh. When I think back on the times from way long ago, they all bring a smile to my face. Please know that you are in my thoughts.
The service for Jeff was so comforting. Thank you, Tammy and Janice, for making all the necessary arrangements that made this day so appropriate in Jeff’s memory. The music, words, CD all showed a life of love for family and friends. Jeff will be missed by us all. We are very proud to be a member of Jeff’s family.
God speed Mr. Johansen, your a good man. My condolences to the family, i’m sure you are very proud of Jeff.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Jeff’s wife and kids.
Be strong and don’t ever let his memory fade.
Meet Jeff once, that was enough to show the person he was and still is, Fish on Jeff, our PRAYERS ARE WITH YOUR FAMILY
Tammy, I am so sorry to hear about you and your family’s loss. May God bless you and comfort your family at this difficult time. I pray that your memories and happy years with your husband sustain you through this difficult time. Signed by your college friend. May God Bless and comfort you.
Guestbook for
Jeffery Earl Johansen