GLOUCESTER: Frederick Thomas Johnson, 82, passed away on May 14, 2014 in Pasadena, California after a long illness. He was the husband of Joan (Gosnell) Johnson, with whom he shared fifty-eight years of marriage. Joan passed away in 2010.
Fred and Joan grew up and raised a family in Woburn, where they lived for many years. For the past twenty-five years, they had spent their winters in Florida and their summers in Gloucester.
Born in Malden on October 3, 1931, he was the son of the late George Johnson and Olive (Getty) Johnson. Fred’s accomplishments in life were many. He was a self made man. He never finished high school, leaving to go to work to support his widowed Mom. He was instrumental in developing one of the largest rose growing businesses in the country and later partnered with his brother, Richard in Brigham’s during a time of that business’ best years. He was successful in business and in life. Fred had a great intellect and a natural curiosity and optimism that served him well. He was a kind and considerate person, a true gentleman. He had many friends, enjoyed good conversation and a good laugh.
Above all, Fred was dedicated to his family. He leaves his three children: Cheryl, wife of Matthew Anderson of Beverly, Stephanie, wife of John Love of La Canada Flintridge, Ca. and Frederick Johnson Jr. of Lexington; four grandchildren, Heather Young of Beverly, Heidi Lauterbach of Ridgeland, MS, Jenny and Johnny Love of La Canada Flintridge, CA; two sisters, Janice D’Auria of Mashpee and Gail (Dascoli) Bouley of Hampton, NH; two brothers, Richard Johnson of Naples, FL and Theodore Dascoli of Hampton, NH and many nieces and nephews. He was also predeceased by his two brothers, George and Walter Johnson.
The family will be receiving relatives and friends on Friday, June 6th in the Pike-Grondin Funeral Home, 61 Middle Street, Gloucester from 6 – 7:30 p.m. with an informal service to follow at 7:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, c/o The Komen MA Office, 200 Brickstone Sq., Suite 407, Andover, MA 01801.