Ronnie Johnson was a proud Teamster member at Fire King, and an influential part of the recent strike at that Company. Sadly, just a short time prior to the strike being won Ronnie suffered from a severe stroke that left him in the hospital. Last Saturday morning, Ronnie tragically lost his battle for recovery and passed away.
Ronnie coined the phrase “It’s 89 time”, which became something of a rallying cry on the picket line and has slowly worked its way into other 89 shops and even recently became an official Teamsters Local 89 t-shirt.
Ronnie was never able to see the victorious conclusion of the Fire King strike that he played an instrumental role in, but his contributions will never be forgotten by his fellow Fire King Teamsters or this Local Union. On the picket line, Ronnie was a constant source of morale. His positive attitude and upbeat personality were infectious and kept those around him in strong spirits in even the darkest of times.
Rest easy, brother Johnson. Your contributions in the never-ending war on workers helped to lift your fellow members at Fire King, and that will never be forgotten. Your service has ended, and the rest of us will carry on the fight in your stead.
Ronnie Johnson Visitation and Service Information:
Visitation: 5pm-8pm Friday, November 18, 2022 at A.D. Porter & Sons, 1300 W. Chestnut St.
Funeral: 12 noon Saturday, November 19, 2022 at the funeral home.
Burial: KY Veterans Cemetery.
