Dr. Carl W. Johnson

Dr. Carl W Johnson died with dignity surrounded by his family on 4/17/23.

Loves of his life include God, his wife, Faye-beautiful bride of 54 years, daughters, Cathy and Brenda + extended family, his mother, apple juice, his photo copier and camera.

He is a world renowned rice geneticist, releasing 38 varieties in 34 years at the California Cooperative Rice Experiment Station. Notable varieties include Calrose m-202, m-204, m-205, m-206, Nishiki m-401 and Mochi cm-101.

We are establishing memorial funds to donate to organizations and causes which he was passionate about.

1. Faith Lutheran Church in Chico, California &/or Lutheran World Relief. Carl and Faye were members since 1974 when they moved to Chico. His relationship with God was shaped first by his mother’s faith then with the Faith Lutheran community. Many a Sunday you could find Carl writing sermon notes in the bulletin or sometimes listening while resting his eyes.

2. Dr. Johnson was a strong advocate of women using their skills to their highest potential. He loved reminiscing about how his mother was the fastest at adding columns of three digit numbers in business school. His father was a close second. He never missed an opportunity to inspire women he’d meet to “Go for it!”

Carl raised his daughters with this guiding principle. Whether changing points in their beloved, 1973 Datsun 510 or pheasant hunting in the early dawn hours, dad ensure that his daughters could stand shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts.

With this in mind, we believe dad would want to support women plant geneticist in their professional journey through research, education, +/- other mechanisms. Alternatively, the education and advocacy of young women in hunting activities would also bring him joy.

If you choose to donate, please indicate which cause you would like to support. Alternatively, if there is another cause you would prefer to donate to, please indicate that as well.

Memorial service will be held in June, details are forthcoming.