Jim was adamant about many things, but certain about one – his life goal was to live to 135. He didn’t quite make it, but as predicted he struggled to his final breath to achieve that end, a bit short at the age of 79.
James O. Johnson (Jim) was born February 6, 1943, during the height of World War II to Clifford and Opal (Cory) Johnson. He was the seventh of nine children. The family was living in Bremerton. During Jim’s youth, the family moved several times to Seattle, then Walla Walla, Smithland, Iowa before coming back to Seattle. Jim quit school to help support the family.
Always ambitious and self-reliant, at age 19, Jim purchased property near Hobart, Washington where he would live for the rest of his life. In 1972, Jim married Helen Eichelberger and became an instant father to her three children, Steve, Shelley, and Mark who he raised as if his own.
Jim started his own business in 1977, Cedar River Asphalt Paving Co. which he operated for over 30 years. Through his knowledge of asphalt and paving he employed many young men, providing a number of whom with a lifelong trade. His children, Steve and Mark followed their stepfather into the asphalt industry, while daughter, Shelley found a place in the related gravel business. His nephews, Johnny, Don, and Rick, and three grandsons, D.J., Conner, and Anthony also found employment in asphalt. After many years, due to poor health, Jim finally retired and closed his business after the 2008 housing collapse.
Jim was a thoughtful man who loved his family. After his passing, it was discovered that Jim had assembled a keepsake box for each family member, filled with photos and memorabilia.
After holding on as long as he could, Jim Johnson passed away on May 16, 2022 in Tacoma, WA, surrounded by family. Jim is survived by his wife, Helen; three children, Steve (Trevi) Eichelberger, Shelley (Shawn) Arnold, Mark (Kelly) Eichelberger; four grandchildren, D.J. (Amber) McSweyn, Conner (Robin) McSweyn, Nicole (Joe) Strachila, and Anthony Eichelberger; and four great-grandchildren, Brooklyn McSweyn, Rowan McSweyn, Henry Strachila, and Georgia Strachila.
Other survivors include his brother, Gene Johnson and sisters, Betty Lou, Barbara-Carol, Maryanne, and Patty. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Opal, brothers Maurice Johnson, Clifford Johnson Jr., and Richard Johnson.
At Jim’s request, there will be no memorial service. Donations in his memory can be made to Maple Valley Historical Society, P.O. Box 123, Maple Valley, WA 98038.
