Ralph Wayne Johnson, age 86, lifelong resident of Racine, WI, passed away on March 19,
2026 at Lincoln Park nursing home, under the care of Hospice.
Ralph was born in Racine, WI, on January 14, 1940. His parents were Margaret and Merle
Johnson. He graduated from St. Catherine’s High School. Ralph was a machinist at
Rench manufacturing (Racine Industries) for 40 years before retiring. He married
Kathleen Gramza on August 18, 1962. They had one son, William. Kathleen preceded
him in death on December 18, 1999. He then married Roxann Kosterman (Dummer) on
July 21, 2000. Roxann also preceded him in death on November 11, 2020.
Ralph leaves behind his son, William Johnson (Racine), two step-daughters, Judah
Kosterman (Michael Lewandowski) of Phoenixville, PA., Clare Kosterman, Albuquerque,
NM, two grandsons, Kyle Sandow (Austin Schopbach), Madison, WI, and Ray
Lewandowski, Phoenixville, PA.
Ralph was a member of the Holy Communion Lutheran church in Racine, WI, and had a
very strong faith in God. He was involved in several community organizations, such as
Knights of Columbus and HUB Food Bank of Racine. He was an avid puzzle doer and
enjoyed reading, traveling, word searches, playing cribbage, and Bingo. Ralph had an
adoration for old cars and spoke often about his GTO convertible. He enjoyed his candy
and had a love for Payday bars. He was a resident of Parkview Gardens from June of
From 2020 to December 2025. Ralph loved the Green Bay Packers and also followed the
Wisconsin Badgers.
Ralph served a short term in the US Navy and was honorably discharged. As of this
time, no formal services are planned; donations can be made to St. Paschal Baylon
Fraternity, Wind Lake, WI. Mail to: Karen Nehls @ 13267 W. Champions Dr., Muskego,
WI. 53150.
