William N. Johansen, passed away at his home in Winston-Salem, NC at age 91, with his family by his side. He was known by the residents of Grand Terrace as the amiable postman having worked for the US Postal service for over twenty-five years before retiring. He told his family how he missed visiting with the folks on his route, playing with their dogs, and the stops at Alta Dena Dairy for a cold quart of buttermilk. While Bill moved to North Carolina in 1997, he and his wife Marcia continued to winter in Grand Terrace for many years continuing the friendships and fun they found at the Senior Center. Some of you may remember Bill as the Bingo caller.
Bill Johansen was just newly married to his bride Marcia Gauthier Johansen (who preceded him in death in 2014) when he was drafted into the Army in 1951. He served with the 45th Infantry Division in Korea with distinction, having earned the Bronze Star.
After the war, he and Marcia moved their family to California settling in Grand Terrace. Bill was very active in the community. When his children were young he was involved with the local boy scout troop and swim team. He joined the Lions Club. Later he and his wife, Marcia, helped with the development of the Senior Center. They continued to be active and maintain friendships there for many years.
After raising their two children, they became world travelers exploring the Soviet Union, China, Europe, Northern Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. It was in New Zealand that Bill literally jumped at the opportunity to go sky diving.
He will be remembered by his two children, Sharon L. Johansen, Robert W. Johansen, two grandchildren, Christina M. Hussey, Nikolas H. Johansen, and three great-grandchildren, James S. Hussy, Tesla A. Johansen, and Abigail G. Hussey as a fun, loving and generous man.
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