Obituary of Roland R. Johnson

Mr. Roland R. "Butch" Johnson, 69 of Fonda, died Thursday at his residence. Mr. Johnson was born April 24, 1939 in Gloversville. He was the son of the late Roland R. and Betty Rickmyer Johnson. He was educated in Gloversville schools and employed for the last 16 years as a metal cutter for Keymark in Fonda. Mr. Johnson was also employed earlier in life at area leather mills, mostly Schaffel Tanning, and at various taverns including Flynn's and the Magic Lantern. A former bowler, he enjoyed hunting and fishing as well. "Butch" as he was known, enjoyed eating at area restaurants and was an avid wrestling fan He enjoyed the simple pleasures in life and was always involved with his family. A life long John Wayne fan, "Butch" enjoyed many movies throughout his life. "The Duke" and his cat "Susie" were a big part of his life and shared with the devotion to all his family. Survivors include his children: Robert C. Nancy Johnson of Fonda, Carla S. Art Johnson of Gloversville, Faye E. Ed Johnson of Coxsackie, Beth A. Darrin Richards of Gloversville and Vera S. Martin Johnson of Johnstown. He is also survived by his sister Patricia Dillenbeck of Ephratah, a half-sister Vicky Johnson of Boston, a half-brother, John Johnson of Gloversville, nieces, nephews and his grandchildren: Brandie, Amber, Jasmin, William, Destanee and Tyler. A family service will take place at 2pm Monday at the Walrath & Stewart Funeral Home, 51 Fremont Street, Gloversville. The family will receive friends on Monday from 12 noon to 2pm prior to the service. Burial will be in Ferndale Cemetery with a Balloon Release Ceremony. Expressions of sympathy in his memory may be made to the James Brennan Humane Society, 437 Nine Mile Tree Rd. Gloversville, or to SOCKS Save our Cats, Kittens and Strays P.O. Box 85 Hagaman, N.Y. 12086