Richard L. "Papa Bud" Johnson

Richard L. “Bud, Papa Bud” Johnson Sr., 83, of Svensen, died Friday, July 27, 2012, in Astoria.

He was born Aug. 25, 1928, in Astoria, to William C. and Rose M. (Olson) Johnson, the third of seven children.

He married Ilene Johnson, who survives, residing in Astoria. The couple were married for more than 63 years.

Mr. Johnson lived his entire life in the Astoria area, working in the woods, mostly driving a log truck, and finishing as a loader operator. He also owned a saw sharpening business.

He was a Cub Scout volunteer, Little League coach, father to 85 foster children and preschool “grandpa.”

Family members said he was an avid hunter and fisherman. He kept his property in “park-like” condition, and loved to mow the grass. If he built something, it was “built for stout.” He enjoyed traveling with his children and seeing new things and places. He loved to read and had a broad base of knowledge.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by six children and their spouses, Diane and Larry Kurtz, Valorie and Spencer Vandehey, Mary and Murray Miller, Cindy and Greg Williamson, Richard Johnson Jr. and his wife, Bernice, and Emily Smith; 14 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren; and several extended family members.

A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 2, at Crossroads Community Church, 40618 Old Highway 30 in Svensen.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Christy Miethe Nursing Scholarship Fund, Crossroads Community Church or the Knappa-Svensen-Burnside-Brownsmead Fire Department, in care of Caldwell’s Luce-Layton Mortuary, 1165 Franklin Ave., Astoria, OR 97103.

An online guest book can be signed at www.caldwells mortuary.com