Remembering Steve Johnson

Team Marin,

It is with deep sadness that I share with you the loss of one of our own. Longtime MRA member Steve Johnson has passed away. He had been battling leukemia for the past couple of years but you would never have known it.  He remained optimistic, upbeat, and selfless until the end; his enthusiastic support of the teams racing in Henley was inspiring.

Steve rowed (stroke seat) for Cal and joined the MRA sometime prior to 1995 (when we finally brought billing to a computer!). His sons, Zach and Jake, both rowed in our juniors program and Zach went on to the U19 National Team winning a gold medal at the 2010 Jr. World Championships, at stroke seat, of course.

Steve served on the MRA Board of Directors, and rowed with our MMM from the earliest days, when the team recreated itself in 2002 after our move to this current site. He, alongside his mates including Alan Collenette, Dick Draeger, and Joel Kimmel were the foundation of integrity, sportsmanship, and camaraderie that remain in the MRA today.

After Steve and his wife Paula moved to Cloverdale, Steve continued to drive to morning practice with the team; THAT pretty much sums up his dedication and commitment to MRA, and his squad. He was a very good man.

Once the family has had the time needed to work through this time, I will share any information that I receive regarding services and contributions.

Rest in Peace, Steve. Thank you for everything you brought to our organization.

STEVE JOHNSON 1942-2022