Barry Allen Johnson: Arcata PD’s First Detective, ‘a man of boundless curiosity’

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Barry Allen Johnson

Barry Allen Johnson passed away peacefully on March 14, 2024 surrounded by his family.

Barry was the beloved son of Harry and Frances Johnson.  He was born and raised in Humboldt County.  He attended Fortuna Union High School and graduated in 1964.  Barry went on to college at Humboldt State University where he graduated in 1971 with a BA in Biology.  Barry’s first full time employment was as a Weights & Measures Inspector for Humboldt County.  He was also a firefighter for the US Forest Service.

Barry started his extraordinary law enforcement career as a Reserve Police officer in 1974 with Arcata Police Department.  He was appointed to Police Officer in 1976 and promoted to rank of Sergeant in 1985.  Barry became Arcata’s first Detective and was known for his exceptional investigative skills and his deep commitment to justice.  He was very proud of his earned title/rank “Detective Sergeant”.  During his career in law enforcement, he served on numerous boards, task forces and specialized investigation teams (Narcotics, Arson, Homicide, Computer Crime, etc).  He also became a Court-recognized Expert in handwriting analysis.  Barry retired in 2001 after 26 years of service to the city of Arcata and County of Humboldt.  Although retired, he continued to make a significant contribution to law enforcement community by continuing to work various jobs such as a Private Investigator, Questioned Document Examiner, and Driving Instructor for the Police Academy at College of the Redwoods.

Barry married his first wife with whom he had two daughters, Jennifer and Lisa.  They later divorced.  Years later, Barry attended his 20-year high school class reunion where he reconnected with his high school sweetheart Donna.   Barry and Donna married in 1986 and together they became a large blended family of ten under one roof.  Barry gave his family the nickname “The Farkle Family” due to the numerous and hilarious mishaps that come with having a large family.  Barry’s ability to manage the complexities of a large family demonstrated his remarkable level of patience.  Barry was an honorable and dedicated father who exemplified commitment, responsibility and love in all aspects of his life.  This was evident in his unwavering support and guidance to his children.  Barry approached his responsibilities with a sense of duty and pride.  

Barry was a man of boundless curiosity.  He had many interests and learned a variety of skills.  If he didn’t know the answer to something, he always knew where to find the answer.  He loved to cook and enjoyed a good BBQ.  He always said “if you’re not using charcoal, you’re cheating”.   Some of his many hobbies included hunting, fishing, biking, HAM radios, flying his drone, and collecting firewood.  He also enjoyed time spent with family and friends, traveling the world and camping in his RV.  Barry was a comedic storyteller.  He had unique humor, creativity and charisma when he would tell stories of his life experiences.  These stories would, without a doubt, make you laugh.  Barry enjoyed life and he definitely lived it to the fullest.    

Barry’s magnetic personality drew people to him, and he had a natural ability to make others feel valued and understood.  His legacy is one of integrity, curiosity and kindness.  He touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents Harry and Frances Johnson.  He is survived by his wife of 37 years Donna Johnson; sister Claudia (Bruce) McLeish; children – Todd (Dani) Farmer, Tref (Jennifer) Farmer, Jennifer Lafranchi, Lisa (Sonny) Gage, Will Barcindebar, Casandra (Mike) Enebrad, 20 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren and many other extended family members.

A Celebration of life will be held on November 2, 2024 at The Elks Lodge in Eureka from 5-9pm.  Please RSVP by sending email to Lisa Gage at  [email protected].

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to an animal shelter or Humane Society of your choice in Barry’s memory.