Obituary
Ricky Jay Johnson
Ricky Jay Johnson (Racecar Ricky, RJ) age 68 passed away peacefully on November 8th, 2021 at home with his wife in Onalaska, Wisconsin.
He was born June 14th, 1953 to William and Carol (Erickson) Johnson. He married the Love of his Life Teresa, on July 7th, 2007 in New Glarus, Wisconsin.
Rick’s passion in life was racing. He provided many exciting race events in the 30 years of his race career. His son Rick also had the race passion and he was there to help on the race car and pass on his many years of race wisdom. He had many nephews who also followed in his footsteps. The numbers 22 and 33 will always be very special to his huge racing family.
He worked in autobody, owning his own shop for many years. He was always available to help anyone with anything related to cars. He had various other occupations before and after his shop.
There were many adventures through the years, including riding his Harley and the many trips out to Sturgis. He and Teresa enjoyed several trips to Mexico, going Up North, long weekend getaways, and various trips to racetracks to catch some action.
He loved spending time with family and friends. Teasing the grandkids and making them laugh. Hanging out with friends where he always had a story or two to tell, and lots of jokes, which he never forgot. Everyone loved Rick’s spirit.
He is survived by his wife Teresa, his daughter Melissa Schwaab (grandkids Lauren and Anna), his son Rick (Tiffany) Johnson (grandkids Kaylynn, Trevor and Makenzie), stepson Jeremy (Emily) Erickson (grandkids Sophie, Finn and Evie), stepdaughter Shanna (Gary) Collins (grandkids Callie and Adam). Siblings Karen (Dan) Powell, Bill (Vicky) Johnson, Terry Johnson, Renee (Darrel) Servais, Tammy (David) Hallum and many special nieces, nephews and relatives.
He was preceded in death by his parents, nephew Korry Servais and sister-in-law Cheryl Johnson.
Rick fought a long hard battle with cancer the last couple years. His strength and determination were incredible, and he amazed us the way he overcame the obstacles along the way. He was our warrior and for that we are forever grateful. He always kept a smile on his face and a twinkle in those beautiful blue eyes.
A special thank you to all the medical staff over the years, and all the many, many prayers that gave him strength.
Forever in our Hearts, until we meet again my love.
In lieu of flowers, donations to The American Cancer Society or the charity of your choice.
There will be a private service for the family on Monday, November 15th.
A Celebration of Life will be held on November 28th, at Whiskey River in West Salem from 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
He will be missed by so many! ? ?
to Rick Johnson’s family, We are so very sorry for your loss. Rick was an unforgettable guy. He loved life, had an infectious laugh and a great sense of humor. We will always remember the 2 years that he and Larry worked for us on the Farm, only 53 years ago!!!! Love, Dale & Thea
To the family of Rick Johnson. Am so sorry for your loss. Rick was a great guy.
To the Ricky Johnson family and friends.
Ricky loved his race car racing and a lot of his fans were his friends.
No more suffering from his ailments, he is with his parents up in heaven.
God Bless the Johnson Family.
I pray for healing of the hearts that
mourn the loss of Ricky.
My sincerest sympathies Teresa and family. He will be so missed ❤️
Our hearts go out to you Teresa and his family. He was such a good guy.
To the family of Rick. So sorry for your loss. He was a gentleman and always, always smiled. It’s so sad when someone so full of happiness is taken away. He will surely be missed. You are all in my thoughts today.
Our sincerest sympathy to you and your families Teresa. Thinking of you at this difficult time. Take care of yourself, Pam and Al Black
To Rick and all of the family, my sincere condolences at this time of loss?
Very sad news! Remember cheering him on racing when we were young Rick jr! Fondest memory was him taking us for a ride around bostwick trailer court in his late model at 130 in the afternoon before heading to track. He will be missed by many!
To the family of Rick’s
Mary and I are sad to hear about his passing. He was a great guy and always fun to race with, I have many great memories of those days. Thanks for the good times and God Speed my friend. Mike Belling and Mary Brickl
Prayers for the Johnson Family for your loss. RJ was a great guy and a great friend !!! P.S. Rick looked a lot like my brother Jon and people would often mistake them for each other. R.I.P. My Friend !!!
I’m so very sorry to hear about RJ! We loved him dearly & always will. Blessings to all—with peace & love! ❤️✝️?☮️
-Jill Blihovde
RIP Buddy. We had a lot of fun and laughs together and it was an honor sponsoring you in racing. Thoughts and prayers to the family
Rick was an original. One of the take no bs kind of guys that everyone loves. He left quite an impression on me and I was always a fan. I always enjoyed speaking with him on a personal level also. A good man gone too soon. God bless his family ?
So sorry to hear that Rick has lost his battle with cancer. I haven’t seen him for a long time but I did love watching him race at West Salem. He always had a big smile when I did run into him. We actually went to grade school together at Wilson in LaCrosse. He will be missed by so many. RIP Buddy…
Heaven got a good one on Monday. I’m so sorry for your loss Teresa, and family. Never a dull moment when Rick was around, so many laughs! By far my favorite couple! My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Best bride maid ever! Love Dennis Rebecca Frey
Teresa
Our sincere sympathy to you and your family.
Jon and Linda Pierce