Obituary of Richard "Dick" Johansen

Richard “Dick” Johansen died unexpectedly in his home on September 2, 2016 in Chappaqua, NY peacefully in his sleep. He was 70. Richard was born on July 4, 1946 in Carroll, IA to his parents, Marvin and Maybelle Young Johansen. Several years later the family moved to Montrose, CO. He graduated from Colorado State University with a Masters in Environmental Engineering. He married Karen Wierzba in 1978 in Hamburg, New York. Dick worked as an engineer for Union Carbide in Buffalo. The Johansen family moved to Chappaqua, NY in 1982 and he worked for Lotepro and then M2T Technologies. Dick remained in the field of Environmental Engineering to this day and had been instrumental in designing Wastewater Treatment Plants for major cities in the US, having recently completed the NYC Ward’s Island Facility. He was looking forward to beginning a partial retirement this year. Richard was an extremely patient and supportive father and spouse with a passion for reading and playing softball. He and Karen enjoyed many vacations and other entertainments such as concerts, plays and dancing in NYC. He was always available to help others using his technical knowledge, sense of direction and DIY advice. Knowing almost all Jeopardy answers, his daughter called often with random questions assured that her Dad would know. He always did! Erin’s most recent birthday present was her long awaited, impromptu wedding to Alex on July 8th. Predeceased by his brother, John Johansen. He is survived by his wife Karen (Wierzba) and father of Erin (Nugent) Johansen of Patterson, NY. A Memorial will take place on Saturday, November 12, 2016 from 2PM to 4:30PM at the Laing Funeral Home Inc. 2724 W. Church St. Eden, NY. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Richard’s life. In lieu of flowers, please donate to www.petsforvets.com or a charity of your choice. Words of sympathy may be left on www.LaingFuneralHome.com