Olympia, WA - David H. Johnson, 69, of Olympia, WA, formerly of Mankato, MN, died on June 15, 2026, in Olympia following a long battle with cancer. David was born on September 10th, 1956, to Harold W. Johnson and Ann M. Johnson (Schweim).

David graduated from St. Clair High School and completed higher education programs at Mankato and Brainerd Area Vocational-Technical Institutes, Bemidji State University, and Oregon State University.

His professional career included positions with Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. David established and directed the Global Owl project, and he became widely recognized as an international expert on owls.

David is survived by his wife, Shari Schaftlein of Olympia, WA; mother, Ann M. Johnson of Mankato, MN; uncle, Paul Schweim of Owatonna, MN; and numerous cousins.

David was preceded in death by his father, Harold W. Johnson; sister, Kay Johnson; and several aunts, uncles, cousins and a special uncle Welford H. "JJ" Johnson.

There will be a private celebration of life in the coming months.

Memorial contributions can be made to the David Johnson Profesional Development Fund c/o of The Peregrine Fund at 5668 W. Flying Hawk Ln., Boise ID 83709.