- Date Of Birth: December 19, 1937
- Date Of Death: May 6, 2022
- State: Colorado
Robert L. Johnson Jr., was born to Velma and Robert Lee Johnson Sr. on December 19, 1937 in Blaine County Wontonga, Oklahoma. At birth, he was named Junior and was later amended to Robert Lee Johnson Jr.
When he was 5 years old, his family relocated to Denver, CO where they moved into a small house on Emerson Street. Although he was an only child, he had many cousins and friends.
Bob was known to be the most athletic kid in the neighborhood. His parents allowed him to play football, baseball, basketball and other sports. He was an elite swimmer and enjoyed playing many sports. One of his fondest memories as a child included learning how to sew and cook from his mother. His parents held him in high esteem and made sure to keep him busy. He learned how to shine shoes with his father to make money at the age of 5. He later instilled his work ethic into his kids and others he came across.
The family moved to 3244 Gaylord Street and this would become Robert’s forever home.
He was educated through Denver Public Schools where he attended Cole Junior High and Manuel High School where he continued his athletic career and lettered in 5 sports. One of much versatility, he became a state champion diver and played the trombone in the school’s band. Roberts abundant athleticism would lead him to playing for a season for the Cincinnati Reds single A team.
After graduating from high school, he attended the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, majoring in Business. He also served his country proudly, representing the United States Army from 1961-1963, he was stationed at Fort Carson.
Bob later met a young lady named Lois Caryl Mance and they were joined in holy matrimony in July of 1963. They were blessed with the birth of Jason Deland Johnson. The marriage was later dissolved. He then met Bonita Phillips and they enjoyed 40 years together. To this union they were blessed with the birth of Bryan Phillips and Desiree Phillips.
Bob followed his father’s footsteps and pursued a career as a barber in December of 1973. He quickly became one of the best barbers in town and took over his father’s shop. He became the proud owner of Dunbar Barbershop located at 2842 Welton street, where he served the community for 40 years. In fact, this is where he met his love, Bonita. He retired in August of 2013.
Those that knew him referred to him as Bob, Jr, or simply Mr. Dunbar. His laugh and smile could light up a room. He spread good energy everywhere he went, gave great advice and was one of the kindest souls around. Bob had an abundance of friens and they spent a lot of time at his barbershop playing spades and dominoes. Every Saturday night the party began.
During his free time, he enjoyed playing and watching golf, his favorite player to watch was Tiger Woods. During football season, Sundays revolved around cheering on the Denver Broncos. He never missed a game and was a season ticket holder since 1968, he was a bronco fanatic.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Velma and Robert Lee Johnson Sr.
Robert joined his Lord and Savior on May 6, 2022. Those left to cherish his memory, include his spouse, Bonita Phillips; his children, Jason Deland Johnson, Bryan Phillips and Desiree Phillips; grandchildren, Jordan Daniels, Makenzie Johnson, and Zoey Johnson; great-grandchildren, Tzion Daniels and Zamya Johnson Puckett; daughter-in-law, Elaine Jones, several cousins and friends.
