Robert G. “Bob” Johnson, also known as “Pepsi Bob,” passed away on Friday, April 25, 2025.
Born on May 31, 1939, in Vallejo, California, to P.R. and Esther “Sandy” (Gotchy) Johnson, Bob moved with his family to Olympia at the age of seven. He attended Olympia schools and later started a family, welcoming three children — Robert Jr., Carrie, and Sandra. In 1974, he married Kathy Haunreiter, and together they built a life in Chehalis.
Bob worked various jobs until he found his perfect fit at L & E Bottling in 1971. He often said he would gladly work for free just to keep his job. Starting as a route truck driver, he cherished the relationships he built with customers. Later, he became a sales manager—a role he truly loved. He also served as the dedicated “Pepsi man” at the Southwest Washington Fair, working long hours and enjoying every interaction.
An accident in 1996 led to health challenges, prompting his retirement in 1998. However, retirement came with adventure. Determined to fulfill a longtime dream, Bob and Kathy traveled to Alaska in their motorhome in 2000, fishing the Kenai River and touring the state.
An avid outdoorsman, Bob loved hunting and fishing. He could recall the details of every deer or elk he had ever hunted. Although he once considered a moose hunt, his wariness of bears kept him from pursuing it. He especially cherished his time fishing at Buoy 10 each August.
For 14 years, Bob and Kathy were proud "snowbirds," spending winters in Indio, California, where they forged lasting friendships. As his health declined, travel became more challenging, but the memories of those adventures remained.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, P.R. and Sandy; his son, Robert Jr.; and his brother, Joe. He is survived by his wife, Kathy; his daughters, Carrie (Jeff) Moore of Yakima and Sandra Manis of Centralia; and his sister, Charlotte Ockerman of Hoodsport. He also leaves behind grandchildren Jeff (Tracy) Moore of Tenino; Julie (Casey) Michaelson of Montana; Jason (Crystal) Moore of Peoria, Arizona; Chris (Randy) Johnson of Olympia; Alicia Johnson of Olympia; and Andy (Shawna) Manis of Carbondale, Kansas, along with 11 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held on June 7, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Centralia Community Church of God, followed by a luncheon. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the charity of your choice in Bob’s honor.
