Richard Johnsen

Native Staten Islander Richard (Richie) W. Johnsen, 61, of Rossville, a house painter and restorer, avid horseman, sports enthusiast and veteran, died Saturday in Staten Island University Hospital, Prince's Bay, after a battle with cancer.

Born in Westerleigh, Mr. Johnsen moved to Rossville in 1976.

After attending Port Richmond High School, Mr. Johnsen worked as a cook and kitchen supervisor with the U.S. Army, stationed at Fort Dix, N.J., in the early 1970s.

Mr. Johnsen then worked as a house painter specializing in restorations, particularly of Victorian homes.

He also was employed by Manhattan Oil Corp. and later drove a home heating oil truck. He retired in 2008.

Mr. Johnsen was an avid horseman and loved riding and showing his horse, Gus. He won many trophies and ribbons for his horsemanship. Mr. Johnsen was also a certified farrier and a member of the Staten Island Sheriffs Mounted Posse.

In his leisure time, he enjoyed golfing and woodworking.

Most especially, though, he loved camping and fishing with his three sons in New Jersey and snowmobiling with them in the Poconos.

He also enjoyed spending time with his nieces and nephews.

Mr. Johnsen was devoted to his dog, Jake.

He is survived by three sons, Richard Jr., Kenneth and Erik; a sister, Kathy Stryeski; his former wife of 16 years, Jeanne Olsson Johnsen, and his companion of 10 years, Linda Pichler.

Arrangements, including cremation, are being handled by Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home, Tottenville.

Services: Immediate Cremation

Visitation:

Cemetery: Cremation Will Be Private

Location: Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home