 JOHNSON, RALPH PETER JR. Age 80, passed away Tuesday, October 30, 2012 at Kaseman Hospice. His wife, Kay, was by his side during his short, severe illness. Mr. Johnson was with the Boeing Airplane Company for 38 years after graduating from the Civil Engineering Dept. of UNM in 1955. He was Chief Engineer at Boeing LA for five years. He played the French horn with two local Albuquerque groups, The American Legion Band and the Ballut Abyad Shrine Center Band. He played, and swore at, an archaic Civil War era instrument with the New Mexico Territorial Brass Band. Two days a week for five years since re-retiring to Albuquerque, he joined the hard working crew who are progressively restoring Santa Fe RR steam locomotive 2926 to running condition with the hope of eventually pulling excursion trains. His own private nick-name was "Boy Machinist". A constant joy in his life was sailboats. Ralph was an active member and Past Commander of the Lake Charles, LA, Squadron of the United States Power Squadrons. He taught celestial navigation as well as other seamanship courses. Racing, cruising, building, fixing and generally playing with wind powered water craft occupied his thoughts and actions for many years. His brother Bruce Johnson, and wife Carolyn, continue to be actively involved in the sailing world. This more-than-hobby carried over to his son, Bruce Johnson who is in the large ship construction business on the East Coast. Bruce, his wife Pat, their son Cameron and daughter Caitlin live in Georgia. Extended family members live in New Mexico, Colorado, and New York. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Frieda Johnson, and his son, Eric Johnson. The Service of Remembrance will be held at a later date. A memorial fund in Ralph's name has been set up with The Full Life Foundation of La Vida Llena Retirement Community, 10501 Lagrima de Oro NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111, or donate to the charity of your choice. To view information or leave a condolence please visit www.danielsfuneral.com Daniels Family Funeral Services 1100 Coal Ave SE Albuquerque, NM 87106 505-842-8800
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