TIA Remembers Richard Johanson, Founder of Johanson Transportation Service

It is with regret and sadness we announce the passing of Richard Johanson, the founder of Johanson Transportation Service, in Fresno, California. He is survived by his son Larry, President of Johanson Transportation Service, his wife Patti, two granddaughters, Amanda Johanson, Yvonne Scott, her husband, James, and four great grandchildren.  Also, daughter Gale Gomes, husband Jason, granddaughter Jody, and her husband, Ryan.  Richard has one surviving brother Howard, his wife Ida, and their families. We take comfort knowing he is reunited with his beloved wife, Althea Johanson, and Amanda in Heaven.

Richard Johanson, a WWII veteran, left his leadership position at California Trucking Exchange, and founded Johanson Transportation Service on August 1, 1971.  From humble beginnings in a diesel repair shop at a truck stop, he rented two small offices and began with three employees.  Richard was an early pioneer in the “truck broker” field, today known as third party logistics providers.  He founded JTS with four important core values, Experience, Integrity, Gratitude, and Respect.  Those attributes were the foundation of his life,” stated Larry.  Fifty years later they are the bedrock which guides the company.  His dedication to hard work and perseverance, not only applied to business, but also his commitment to make Fresno, Clovis, and the Central Valley a better place to live and work.

Richard was born December 17, 1925 in Fresno, California.  During his early years he moved with his family many times.  When his father needed work, they moved to where the job was.  Richard understood the importance of education.  He began his college education at University of California at 16 and completed his degree after returning from WWII. He served four years in the United States Marine Corp., coming back to Kingsburg, California from his last deployment in China in 1946.  He went on to take classes at Reedley College, and then to Fresno Business College, now named California State University, Fresno.  He then began his successful professional working career.

“I am blessed to call him father.  I am amazed at what he accomplished in his life.  My dad had a heart of gold, a contagious gift of wit, generosity, and charm that came from within, which extended to everyone who met him.  We are grateful for his caring heart and passion to help others through his time, knowledge, and contributions,” stated Larry.

Richard pictured in 1971.

Richard supported many nonprofit and educational organizations.  He served on numerous councils, committees, and governing boards, including as a trustee with the Fresno Unified School District, humbly earning awards and accolades through decades of volunteer work.   Many would say he is one of Fresno’s Greatest Legends!   His dedication to JTS never ceased to amaze the staff.  His weekly visits to the corporate office in Fresno,  would always come with, “Does anyone have any hard questions today”?

“My dad was a Christian man. His faith was important to him,” stated Larry.  “Prior to his passing, we had talked about our faith.  We find comfort knowing he is at peace after his long, blessed, and fulfilled life.  We will continue to honor his legacy at JTS through our good works as well.” 

Richard always said, “ Every day is a good day, just some our better than others.”  God bless our Founder. We will miss him dearly.

Services for Mr. Johanson are pending.