James Johnson

James B. Johnson – Blake

After an 80-year exploration of our world, devoted husband, father, and grandfather extraordinaire James B. Johnson (Blake) died peacefully in Coeur d’Alene, ID on December 22, 2019.  The journey that began on November 27, 1939, with his parents Donald O. and Mildred E. Johnson in Spokane, WA, will continue in the afterlife with the many friends, family members, and the love of his life, Kathleen (Kay), who preceded him in death on March 25, 2015.

Blake was a complicated, yet simple man.  A great thinker with a brilliant mind, Blake subscribed to a number of theories that he tested throughout his life:  KISS-Keep It Simple Stupid; the Duck Theory-if it looks, acts, walks and talks like a duck, it’s most likely a duck; The 6 P’s- Proper Preparation Prevents Piss Poor Performance.  As is expected in life, his children tested each one of these theories, much to his amusement and chagrin.

Blake attended North Central High School in Spokane, WA, Whitworth College (University) and the University of Idaho.  He was honorably discharged from the United States Coast Guard and carried the Semper Paratus motto with him throughout his life.

He embarked on his greatest adventure on June 5, 1965 when he married Kay McCanna in a beautiful ceremony at St. Aloysius Gonzaga Parish in Spokane.  Together they built a life of love for their children, grandchildren, and often bonus kids who needed a hand up, a hug through, or encouragement.

While Kay kept the home fires burning, Blake traveled the globe on work related quests.  He frequently regaled his family with colorful stories of his globetrotting adventures, including a tremendous respect for the many cultures and people he encountered along the way.

Among the many who will miss Blake’s brilliant presence in this world are: Son Don Johnson of Rathdrum, ID and his children Madison, Timothy and Amelia as well as his daughter Terri and her husband Bob of Spokane and their children Nicholas, Christopher, Cecelia and Michael.  God blessed us with the gift of Blake.

Rosary will be 6:30 p.m. Friday January 3rd, at the English Funeral Chapel, 1133 N. 4th St., Coeur d'Alene, ID.  A Memorial Mass will be celebrated 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 4th, St. Pius X Catholic Church, 625 E. Haycraft Ave, Coeur d’Alene, ID.  Blake and Kay's final resting place will be at the Spangle Cemetery.  Blake’s family would be honored by your presence.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Children’s Village of Coeur d’Alene and the Silver Valley Veteran’s Memorial Association in Kellogg, ID.  These two organizations were near and dear to Blake and Kay’s hearts and your memorial contributions will continue their legacy of love and honor.   If you’ve made it this far in this tribute to Blake, you will know that it is in violation of another one of his life theories: ABC-Always Be Concise!