Longtime industry leader Richard Johanson dies

Richard Johanson, 96, the founder of Johanson Transportation Service, in Fresno, California, has died.

Johanson is survived by his son Larry, president of Johanson Transportation Service, his wife Patti, two granddaughters, Amanda Johanson, Yvonne Scott, her husband, James, and four great-grandchildren. Also, daughter Gale Gomes, husband Jason, granddaughter Jody, and her husband, Ryan.

Richard Johanson, a World War II veteran, left his position at California Trucking Exchange and founded Johanson Transportation Service on Aug. 1, 1971, according to the company.

 He started the company in a diesel repair shop at a truck stop, where he rented two small offices and began with three employees, the company said. Johanson was a pioneer in the “truck broker” field, today known as third-party logistics providers. He founded JTS with the four core values of experience, integrity, gratitude, and respect, according to a tribute.

“I am blessed to call him father,” Larry Johanson said in the tribute. “I am amazed at what he accomplished in his life. My dad had a heart of gold, a contagious gift of wit, generosity, and charm that came from within, which extended to everyone who met him. We are grateful for his caring heart and passion to help others through his time, knowledge, and contributions.”

Born in Fresno in 1925, Johanson spent much of his time working to make Fresno, Clovis and the Central Valley a better place to live and work, the tribute said. His faith was important to him, his son said.

 “We find comfort knowing he is at peace after his long, blessed, and fulfilled life. We will continue to honor his legacy at JTS through our good works as well.,” Larry Johanson said in the tribute.

Services are pending, the family said.