Ronald William Johnson died on May 21, 2014 in his home in Palm Springs, California of a heart attack.
He was born November 28, 1939 to Ivel and Esther Johnson in Casa Grande, Arizona. As the youngest child, he enjoyed the love and attention of three older sisters and two older brothers. He attended Amphitheater High in Tucson, Arizona and later graduated from the University of Arizona in 1961 where he was a member of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. Ron went on to earn a degree from Hastings College of Law in San Francisco in 1967. He married Cindy Meline and raised three children with her from 1962 to 1986. Ron started his law career in the D.A.'s office in Orange County, then practiced in Glenwood Springs, Colorado for many years before returning to California to specialize in family law until his retirement in 2004. He was an enthusiastic member of Rotary International and honored as a Paul Harris fellow. Always active, Ron loved playing basketball, tennis, and golf, and taking his children on various outdoor activities.
In his later life, Ron enjoyed 19 years of loving companionship with his partner Ken whom he married six months before his death. He loved being in his kitchen cooking or out in his yard adding colorful new plants. He also enjoyed being a member of Primetimers of the Desert, Modern Men Chorus and playing golf with friends in Palm Springs.
He is survived by his partner Kenneth Fontenot; his sons Kevin and Grant and daughter Jill; his brothers Eldon and Norman and sisters Velma (Woods) and Mildred (Arnold); as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his sister Eileen (Yewell).
Ron was treasured for his hospitality to his friends and his enthusiasm for all events that brought his extended family together.
Always tender-hearted, he often reminded us to "Be kind and give warm fuzzies".
A private celebration of life for family and friends will be announced later.
Donations in Ron's memory may be made to Modern Men - the Coachella Valley Men's Chorus, 611 S. Palm Canyon, Box 7058, Palm Springs, CA 92264.