A spokesperson from the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission said the park ranger killed in a fatal car collision was 44-year-old Ed Johanson. Many mourned after hearing about his death.

Johanson was a ranger for 20 years and served at Kitsap Memorial State Park near Seabeck. A spokesperson from the State Parks said Johanson last worked at Kanaskat Palmer State Park near Ravensdale.

Johanson’s 20-year-old son, Brandon, spoke with KIRO 7 and said his dad died just a couple miles from home. Brandon Johanson got worried when he kept calling his dad Friday evening, but there was no answer.

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“I think having it so close to home just really sort of brings the mental trauma and emotional trauma," said Brandon Johanson. “"He was very personable, very friendly and I think that he didn't have to say a lot for people to know what he meant, who he cared about and what he cared about."

Co-workers who worked closely with Ed Johanson said he was known for his enthusiasm and passion. He took his position as an identity rather than a job.

Gov. Chris Gregoire gave her condolences in a statement.

"Ranger Ed Johanson was the type who went above and beyond to make both our parks and our state a better place," said Gregoire.

Johanson was off duty when he died in a head-on collision near Seabeck. He was driving on his way home when another vehicle struck him.