Roland S. Johnson's Obituary
Roland S. Johnson, of Mount Laurel, NJ, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2024. He was 95 years old.
Born in Chicago, IL, to the late Sven B. and Eleonora (Andersson) Johnsson. Roland grew up in Gothenburg, Sweden, and held dual citizenship in the U.S. and Sweden. Roland was a proud Military Veteran. At age 15, he joined the Swedish Merchant Marines serving on ships all over the world. Then, as a young man, he moved back to America and joined the United States Army and served during the Korean War.
Roland dedicated 25 years at Boeing, working in both Renton, WA, and Boeing Vertol in Ridley Park, PA. As an Aerospace Engineer, he played a pivotal role in designing the inaugural 747 aircraft and the Chinook and Osprey helicopters. He was passionate about both aviation and seafaring. Even in his retirement, Roland’s enthusiasm for innovation persisted as he engaged in designing and building, often undertaking extensive home improvement projects. Remarkably, well into his eighties, he secured a U.S. patent for an ingenious gutter system he dubbed "Wondergutter." He was an avid lover of accordion music, especially Swedish folk music, and played the instrument, much to the delight of his family members.
Roland was the beloved husband of the late Doris (née Smith); cherished father of David R. Johnson (Marilyn); loving brother of Sigurd Johnson (Samia) of Mount Laurel and Lilian Espe of Sweden. Roland is predeceased by his twin brother, Raymond, his sister, Harriet, and his precious Pomeranian, Frisky. He is survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends who will miss him immensely.
A life celebration service will be held at a later date for the family.
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