Robert Craig Johnson, 74, passed away on April 5, 2024, in Kennewick, WA. Craig was born on August 30, 1949 in Sedro Woolley, WA, to Robert Edward and Montana Alice (Cleary) Johnson. Craig was raised as an only child as his sister, Mary Melody died in infancy. He was extremely close to and proud of his maternal grandparents, Edwin Patrick and Alice Irene (Walsh) Cleary and the extended Cleary clan. He had many special memories at the family cabin on Flowing Lake and spending time with his cousins.

Craig graduated from Cleveland High School in Seattle, WA in 1967. After graduation, Craig started his career as an assembly mechanic for Boeing, and then went on to work for Washington Natural Gas in Seattle. He held many positions during this time from meter reader to pipefitter, eventually supervising crews on various projects.

At a New Year’s Eve party in 1970, Craig introduced himself to Barbara Hoffman with a kiss at midnight. This was the beginning of a lifelong partnership leading to their marriage on April 14, 1973 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Seattle, WA.

In 1975, Craig and Barbara welcomed their first daughter, Christine Nicole. Six months later Craig and his small family moved to Richland, WA as he took a pipefitter position at the Hanford site. Craig and Barbara went on to have two more children, Jessica Irene in 1978 and Robert Erik in 1982.

Craig worked at Hanford for 36 years, holding various roles surrounding industrial construction. He was a natural leader and often found himself in leadership positions, with or without the title. He was the type of leader that wouldn’t ask someone to do something he wasn’t willing to do himself. He was responsible for running jobs that included collaboration of multiple trades and crafts while ensuring safety protocols were adhered to. Craig also had the ability to have fun at work while getting the job done. He had countless stories of his career that he would share fondly throughout his lifetime.

Craig owned many dogs throughout his life which he loved and cherished. Craig was introduced to bird hunting by his best friend, Dwight, who later became his brother-in-law. This lifelong passion brought together so many elements that were important to Craig: people, dogs and nature. This was something he shared with his children and his hunting buddies who he loved like brothers. He had a way of telling stories that made you feel like you were there and could deliver a joke like a pro. He loved to read, especially on the topic of history. He was a curious person and loved to learn.

Craig is survived by his wife of 51 years, Barbara, his children Christine Johnson, Jessica (Steve) Gaudreault and Erik (Laura) Johnson. He is also survived by his grandchildren Abbigail and Emily Gaudreault, Sadie, Juliette, Reagan and Mackenzie Johnson.

Craig is preceded in death by his parents Robert Edward and Montana Alice Johnson. His infant sister, Mary Melody, his grandparents, extended family, beloved friends and all the dogs he cherished throughout his life.

A celebration of life service and reception will be held on April 26, 2024 at 1:00pm, at Sunset Gardens Event Center located at 915 Bypass Highway, Richland, WA 99352.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Craig’s name to Ducks Unlimited, Benton Franklin Humane Society or Disabled American Veterans.