“Serving I Live” Spotlight - Mr. Dick Johnson, BYU Class of 1964
Dick Johnson of Boise is presented a Personal Best Award from National Senior Games Association CEO Marc T. Riker, left, and Mike Thornton, Idaho Senior Games Coordinator.
Dick is a Cum Laude BA 1964 graduate of BYU. Although there only 2 years, he was quickly called to serve as President of Blue Key, on the Honor Council, and in high Church positions (Elders Quorum President and Bishopric). He was introduced via a blind date to his wife, Lawana, by Cosmo the Cougar, BYU’s mascot. After graduating, he later served as President of the Boise BYU Management Society. That chapter was very successful and received the distinction of chapter of the year.
Even though Dick’s sports success is extraordinary, the award he has recently received is more about character. It reminds me of the high ideals of Blue Key, because it speaks to overcoming challenges, staying motivated, and inspiring others by example. His belief and lifetime devotion to God, family, community, and service to others is especially noted.
A few highlights:
– Dick is continuing into his 3rd year medaling (mostly Golds) in all 7 National & World Pickleball Championships. That’s called a medaling “Grand Slam.” 200 medals (mostly Golds) in 90 sanctioned tournaments. Named All American by State Games of America. #1 ranked player in the world in his age group last year and again leading this year. Regularly plays and medals against decades younger players.
– Pickleball is exploding in popularity, is the fastest growing sport in North America and played on 5 continents. Former Olympians, NCAA Champs, Davis Cup players, etc. play the game. Televised on CBS Sports. Registration for pickleball for the Huntsman World Sr. Games (over 10,000 athletes from 70 countries and where Dick has won many Golds), filled up this year in 10 minutes!
– State Tennis Championships in every decade of his life, except one.
– One of the few athletes in the world to have played in both the tennis and pickleball (Gold Medal) US Opens
– Taught 3 daughters who became State State Champions and High School All Americans
• Dick gave up academic & tennis scholarships to go on his 1st mission. Then, after the mission, he again gave up a very likely tennis scholarship when he was called to be President of Blue Key and his first Bishopric at age 22 at BYU
• 3 other missions & humanitarian service in Africa. Created & rolled out the CES “Be Smart!” program on a 3 year mission with his wife
• Part time Seminary & Institute Teacher for 15 years. Bishop, 5 High Councils, President of Elders, High Priests, Ward & Stake Missions, Ward & Stake Sunday School, BYU Blue Key Honor Society, Boise BYU Management Society
• Many leadership positions & achievements in business, government, academics, school, community, church
• Married 54 years: 4 kids, 15 grandkids, 4 greatgrandkids. To date, all temple marriages, missions, etc.
• Overcame very severe health & surgeries issues
Below is a recent TV clip, the press release, and a national article by the National Senior Games.
Press Release: Boise Senior Athlete Receives National Honor
Television Clip:
https://www.ktvb.com/video/news/local/boise-man-honored-by-national-senior-games/277-8208843
National Article:
http://nsga.com/pbfeatures/pickleball-saved-my-life
Dick is more than deserving of this award and serves as a role model for many others. He truly exemplifies the Blue Key motto, “Serving, I live.”
Are you, or your chapter, making a significant difference on your campus? Is there an alumnus of your chapter that has continued to give back? Let us know! Contact us at director@bluekey.org