Terry Lee Johnson

Dec 21, 1947 -

Dec 16, 2022

Terry Johnson died unexpectedly at Providence Hospital in Anchorage, Alaska, on Friday, Dec. 16, 2022, from kidney cancer.

Terry was born in Fort Wayne, Ind., on Dec. 21, 1947, and grew up in Seattle, Wash. He enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1967, attaining the rank of sergeant by his discharge in 1970.

Terry earned a bachelor's degree in communication from the University of Washington in 1974. He worked as a reporter and freelance writer for National Fisherman, Pacific Fishing and others, and as a commercial fisherman for almost 20 years. In 1984, he received a Masters of Marine Affairs at the University of Washington.

Terry began his career with the University of Alaska Fairbanks in 1991 as an assistant professor at the Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program serving in Dillingham, Homer and Anchorage. Over 26 years, he wrote 35 publications, many of which still are in wide circulation around the state. He drew on his broad and varied experience with Alaska's maritime environment, coastal industries and communities to serve Alaska's marine extension needs. Retiring from UAF in 2017, Terry was honored as professor emeritus.

For over a decade, Terry operated a marine wildlife viewing business in Bristol Bay.

Terry an was explorer, adventurer and traveler. At his happiest, he was anchored in a quiet bay, with his friends or family.

We remember him for his intelligence, quick wit, dry humor and kindness. He was most proud of attending Sasha's graduation from Southern Utah University in April 2022.

He is survived by his wife, Yelena Marycheva; son, Sasha Johnson; sister and brother-in-law, Karen and Scott Broyles; and many friends across the globe. A celebration of Terry's life is planned for spring 2023.

Donations in Terry's name can be made to the Nature Conservancy or Audubon Society.