Alan Johnson

December 3, 1932 - March 17, 2021

SAN DIEGO — Alan Johnson, 88, passed away on March 17. He died as he lived, fighting the good fight while surrounded by his immediate family.

Alan was a devoted husband of 64 years to Nickie Johnson. He was father to Neal Johnson (married to Kathy Johnson with children Alec, Erik and Grace); Stephen Johnson (married to Debra Baker); and brother to Vera Hilmen.

Alan grew up in National City and graduated from SDSU in 1956 before joining the Army. After his discharge, he worked as a commercial artist for Phillips Ramsey. There, he was part of the team that designed the WD40 logo. After retiring, he taught art at Francis Parker. He was an acclaimed artist and also influenced the artistic lives of many students.

His real passion was cycling. He co-founded the Banana Gang, a competitive cycling group. In 1997, he became the Southern California/ Nevada Champion Road Racer. A week later he was struck by a car while riding his bike. A severe spinal cord injury ended his cycling career yet not his competitive spirit. Until his final days, he worked out daily, often on his Greg Lemond spin bike, and continued to draw and paint.

Alan was celebrated with a flag ceremony by the staff at the VA Hospital’s Spinal Cord Injury Unit. Donations can be made to: Paralyzed Veterans of America or ZLAC Rowing Club.

Please sign the Guest Book online obituaries.sandiegouniontribune.com