We are deeply saddened to share news with you of the passing of USDA Forest Service retired employee Allen Johnson, who died Aug. 31.

Johnson began working for the Forest Service as a seasonal employee in 1972 on the Angeles National Forest. In 1975 he received his first permanent appointment on the Cleveland National Forest as a firefighter before becoming superintendent on the El Cariso Interagency Hotshot Crew. He finished his career as district fire management officer on the Stanislaus National Forest, from which he retired in March 2010. Throughout his career he was a well-known incident commander and liaison officer assigned to two different California Incident Management Teams.

Johnson did not slow down during his retirement. He continued make a difference, serving on local Fire Safe councils and the Southwest Interface Team—of which Johnson served as coordinator, advocating a collaborative approach to achieving fire-adapted communities. He participated in many other community efforts throughout his retirement, among them serving as instructor for the Sonora High School Regional Occupations Program for the fire sciences program. Johnson was known as a mentor and friend to many who crossed paths with him.

Johnson married his wife Martha in 1975. While they had no children of their own, they hosted six international exchange students throughout the years who referred to them as mom and dad. Friends, colleagues and mentees also considered Johnson a father figure, referring to him as “fire dad.” According to his coworkers, he was “One of the best firefighters I ever had the opportunity to know and work with” and a “Hell of a human being; kind, compassionate; a friend to all.” He was best known as an avid fisherman, an award-winning gardener and a devoted Dodgers fan. He was a giver to the end as well as a beloved fire legend.

Johnson is survived by his wife Martha, brother Steve (retired from the Angeles National Forest), brother Raymond and extended family. Our condolences go out to the entire Johnson family, their friends, Johnson’s co-workers and teammates. We’re very grateful for his many years of service to this agency and our nation.

Letters of condolence may be sent to the family through the Stanislaus National Forest Supervisor’s Office at 19777 Greenley Rd, Sonora, CA 95370. Flowers may be sent on Saturday, Sept. 25, 2021. Johnson’s memorial service will be held Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021.