Pacific Grove

Robert August Johnson, a lifelong resident of Monterey County, passed away peacefully at his home in Pacific Grove on May 1,2025, at the age of 94. Adevoted steward of the land, Bob was known for his unwavering dedication to agriculture, education, and his community.

Born and raised on the family farm in Chualar, Bob’s roots ran deep in the Salinas Valley. He graduated from Salinas High School and Stanford University, then returned home to found Old Stage Farms, where he farmed for more than four decades. An early adopter of technology, Bob was among the first in the region to implement pivot and linear irrigation systems. In 1978, he was part of a pioneering group of U.S. farmers invited to visit newly opened China to learn about their agricultural methods.

Bob took great pride in being part of Monterey County’s agricultural heritage—often reminding others that KSBW stood for the “Salad Bowl of the World.” With a Swiss Army knife and measuring tape always in his pocket, he could fix nearly anything and approached life with practical ingenuity.

He served in the California Air National Guard’s 144th Fighter Wing, and in 1955 married Sue Galbreath, his beloved wife of 52 years. Together, they built a life rich with adventure, curiosity, and commitment to service.

They traveled to all seven continents—Africa holding a special place in their hearts—and Bob often flew the family across California and Mexico as a private pilot. A dedicated outdoorsman, he took up skiing in college and later shared the slopes with his children and grandchildren.

Bob and Sue also hiked and backpacked throughout the Sierra Nevada with multiple generations of family.

A passionate advocate for agriculture and education, Bob generously gave his time and leadership to organizations such as the California Farm Bureau (Past President), Rotary Club (Past President), 4-H, and Future Farmers of America. He worked tirelessly to expand access to higher education for local students and was instrumental in advancing agricultural programs at California State University, Monterey Bay.

Later in life, Bob became a committed philanthropist and conservationist. He and Sue’s generosity helped establish the Galbreath Wildlands Preserve in Mendocino County—now a vital research and education center through Sonoma State University’s Center for Environmental Inquiry.

To those who knew him, Bob embodied “True Grit.”

His life was a testament to hard work, generosity, and steadfast values.

He is survived by his daughters Robbie (Dan) Johnson Rhodes of Monterey, Cindy (Bob) Johnson Shaw of Reno, and Terri (Dave) Galbreath Johnson Yost of Santa Rosa; granddaughter Kristi (Brian) Yost McWilliams of Rohnert Park; brother Richard Andre of Aptos; sister-in-law Joan Johnson of Chualar; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Sue, his brother Harry R. Johnson, and his grandson Kevin Robert Yost.

A private celebration of life will be held.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: California State University – Jane Pere Johnson Scholarship Online: CSU Monterey Bay Giving Page By check: CSU Monterey Bay Alumni and Visitor's Center –Bldg 97 Jane Pere Johnson Scholarship 100 Campus Center Seaside, CA 93955-8001 Attn: University Development Sonoma State University –Center for Environmental Inquiry Online: SSU CEI Giving Page By check: Sonoma State University Advancement Office, Salazar Hall 2043 1801 E. Cotati Avenue Rohnert Park, CA 94928 (Note: Please indicate “CEI” on the memo line) Arrangements by: Struve and LaPorte Chapel, Salinas