In loving memory of
Phillip Leroy Johnson Jr.
September 19, 1945 - December 12, 2016
Phillip Leroy Johnson Jr. (Buzz) of Yakima, WA passed away on December 12, 2016. Phil was born September 19, 1945 in Yakima, WA to Phil and Anna Lu Johnson. Phil was the oldest of 3 brothers and spent most of his childhood in the Yakima Valley. Phil attended Sunnyside High (1964) and Green River CC. In 1964 Phil courageously enlisted in the US Army. As part of the 27th Artillery group Phil spent time in both Germany and Vietnam. After returning from Vietnam he moved to the Seattle area and in 1970 married Sandra K Dunham of Towanda, KS. Phil and Sandy raised their two children in the Seattle area until 1981 when they moved to Yakima. The young family enjoyed many summer camping trips and family Thanksgiving's while in Yakima. During this time, he also served 6 years in the US Army Reserve. Phil spent 19 years working for Safeway until he was hired as a Patrol Officer in 1988 for the Hanford Nuclear Reservation site where he remained until 2003. At Hanford Phil met lifelong friends with similar interests. Phil enjoyed motorcycles, firearms, genealogy and history. Phil was preceded in death by his parents. Phil is survived by: Sandy his wife of 46 years, daughter Paula (Mark Koering) Johnson of Brainerd, MN, son Brian (Jenipher) Johnson of Lynden, WA, son Scott (Joanie) Kuever of Gold Bar, WA, brother Clayton (Sadie) Johnson of Payette, ID, brother Aaron Johnson of Tonganoxie, KS, 7 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren and Sophie his little dachshund buddy. Phil will miss the strong relationships with his many cousins in Benton City, WA and Rushville, NE. Phil will be remembered for his military service and undeniable veteran's pride. Phil's dry sense of humor came out through his strong silent outward demeanor. Per his request there will not be a standard funeral service. A celebration of life will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to be made to your local VFW and that you thank a veteran for their service. Never forget.