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Timeline for Dennis M Johnson
Born: August 1, 1947
Died: May 25, 2025
In Loving Memory of
Dennis M. Johnson
Dennis Johnson, a proud second-generation railroad employee, United States Marine Corps veteran, and retired police officer, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and deep-rooted passion.
He was born on August 1, 1947, in Sacramento, California, and passed away on May 25, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona.
Born into a family of railroaders, Dennis inherited a love for the railroad from his father. From a young age, he was captivated by the rhythm of the trains and the stories they carried.
He followed in his father’s footsteps, dedicating many years to the railroad industry, where he was known for his work ethic, technical skill, and unwavering respect for the history and future of rail transportation.
Before his time working for the railroad, Dennis served his country with honor and distinction as a Marine. His military service instilled in him a lifelong sense of discipline, loyalty, and courage—qualities that he carried into his next chapter as a railroad police officer.
In law enforcement, Dennis was a steady and compassionate presence, committed to protecting and serving his community with integrity.
In fact, he met his beloved wife, Barbara, while he was a Marine, working as a military policeman. Their “meet cute” was when Dennis pulled Barbara over to give her a ticket, and she famously tore it up, right in front of him. They built a loving life together until Barbara’s passing in February 2025.
Dennis was more than his titles. He was a mentor, a storyteller, and a man who found joy in the simple things—sharing memories of his service, and spending time with those he loved. His life was a testament to hard work, quiet strength, and enduring values.
He is survived by his son Michael, his grandchildren Mikayla and Noah, his family, friends, and a community that will forever remember his contributions and his kind, steady spirit.
Dennis Johnson’s journey was one of honor, heritage, and heart. May he rest in peace, and may his story continue to inspire all who knew him.
A visitation for Dennis will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025 from 9:00 am to 9:45 am at Marana Mortuary & Cemetery, 12146 W Barnett Rd, Marana, AZ 85653, followed by a funeral service at 9:45 am. Dennis will be laid to rest at Marana Mortuary & Cemetery.
Dennis and I met fifty years ago in 1975 while we both worked for the Southern Pacific Railroad, but I didn't really get to know him until I showed up as terminal manager for Pacific Rail Services at the Port of Los Angeles & Long Beach ICTF in 1987 where Dennis was head of security. We became close friends with him and "Bobbie" and kept in touch when they retired several years later in the Tucson area. He was a good and decent man who had a passion for railroading. My aunt, Helen (nee Jones) Rogers-Phipps worked with him in the Tucson Division offices before she retired and loved him as a "boss." My family, including my Mom and Dad (Marvelle & Ralph) and brothers Ken (SP Communications) and Paul (SP locomotive engineer), had a lot of respect for him and his devotion to Bobbie and the railroad business. We had some interesting (if not dangerous) experiences together in El Paso - and at the ICTF dealing with 300+ Longshoremen and about 1,000 Teamsters every day (...which was like mixing oil and water...), including derailments, drug testing employees, taking weapons away, investigating HAZMAT leaks, explosions, & fires, and hiring, firing, and disciplining many employees - all in the bowels of South Los Angeles/Wilmington. As I look back, it seems like every day was a crisis at the ICTF of some sort. Dennis always had the backs of good folks like Terry and Bill Currier (my 1st cousin) and Dan Botello from the old SD&AE line - and did his best to keep me "out of trouble" for which I will be forever grateful. He was always truthful, a loyal friend, and a straight shooter! Semper Fi, Marine !! Rest in peace, Brother.
I only met Dennis once at a Stratton Family reunion (my father's family) I'm related through Barbara, but don't remember the exact connection right now. I enjoyed the very short time together and enjoyed reading Barbara's posts about their adventures together. I am sad for your loss and praying that you will know God as the God of Comfort during this time.
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Our sincere condolences.
The staff of Marana Mortuary & Cemetery.
Dennis and I met fifty years ago in 1975 while we both worked for the Southern Pacific Railroad, but I didn't really get to know him until I showed up as terminal manager for Pacific Rail Services at the Port of Los Angeles & Long Beach ICTF in 1987 where Dennis was head of security. We became close friends with him and "Bobbie" and kept in touch when they retired several years later in the Tucson area. He was a good and decent man who had a passion for railroading. My aunt, Helen (nee Jones) Rogers-Phipps worked with him in the Tucson Division offices before she retired and loved him as a "boss." My family, including my Mom and Dad (Marvelle & Ralph) and brothers Ken (SP Communications) and Paul (SP locomotive engineer), had a lot of respect for him and his devotion to Bobbie and the railroad business. We had some interesting (if not dangerous) experiences together in El Paso - and at the ICTF dealing with 300+ Longshoremen and about 1,000 Teamsters every day (...which was like mixing oil and water...), including derailments, drug testing employees, taking weapons away, investigating HAZMAT leaks, explosions, & fires, and hiring, firing, and disciplining many employees - all in the bowels of South Los Angeles/Wilmington. As I look back, it seems like every day was a crisis at the ICTF of some sort. Dennis always had the backs of good folks like Terry and Bill Currier (my 1st cousin) and Dan Botello from the old SD&AE line - and did his best to keep me "out of trouble" for which I will be forever grateful. He was always truthful, a loyal friend, and a straight shooter! Semper Fi, Marine !! Rest in peace, Brother.
I only met Dennis once at a Stratton Family reunion (my father's family) I'm related through Barbara, but don't remember the exact connection right now. I enjoyed the very short time together and enjoyed reading Barbara's posts about their adventures together. I am sad for your loss and praying that you will know God as the God of Comfort during this time.
Marana Mortuary & Cemetery
Our sincere condolences.
The staff of Marana Mortuary & Cemetery.