Ernest “Ernie” J. Johnson 89, a life long resident of Keene died on Saturday, March 21, 2015 at Maplewood Nursing Home in Westmoreland. He passed peacefully with his family present after a brief period of declining health.
Ernest was born the son of the late Idell (Poisson) and James J. Johnson Jr. on January 30, 1926 in Keene. He was educated locally and graduated from Keene High School class of 1944.
Ernie enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He served his time aboard the U.S.S. Bunker Hill as a Water Tender, Second Class, operating and maintaining boiler and fuel oil systems aboard the U.S.S. Bunker Hill during World War II. Ernie completed his time of service but was not able to re-enlist until he completed his high school education, which he did. Ernie then re-enlisted and served more time with the U.S. Navy and honorably discharged at the rank of WT-2nd Class .
In 1948 Ernie exchanged vows with Mary “Molly” E. Corbett. They were married with family and friends in attendance. Sadly Molly passed in 1995 after 47 years of marriage. Ernie was fortunate to find another love. On April 10, 1999 he exchanged vows with Shirley B. Wilcox. They were married with family and friends in attendance at the Methodist Church in Keene. They have been married for almost sixteen years.
Ernie worked for over twenty five years for the Economy Heating and Plumbing Company in Keene as a salesman and estimator. He retired in 1992 to enjoy his golden years with his family.
He was a man with many interests. He enjoyed golfing, bowling, stock car and motorcycle racing. He was an avid sports fan for all the New England teams. Ernie was a co-founder of the New England Bowling Tournament in Keene. He was also civically minded and was a local member of the Elks, American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign War. He was also a member of the American Bowlers Association.
Mr. Johnson is survived by his wife Shirley B. Johnson of Keene. His two children; Donna Crowell and her Husband Paul of N.C. and Debra Goodrich and her partner, Andre Brousseau of Swanzey. His wife’s children; Larry Thompson and his wife of N.C. Deanna Morrison and her husband Butch of Keene, Kevin Thompson of S.C. Bruce Thompson of Keene, Deborah Wilton of GA. and James Dalzell of Keene. A sister in-law, Patricia Johnson of Keene. Several grandchildren, many great grandchildren in addition he leaves cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Ernie is pre deceased by his brother who passed on January 14, 2013 and his sister Beatrice Henderson passed earlier.
In keeping with Ernie’s wishes there are no calling hours and burial will take place at a later date to be determined. Donations can be made in memory of Ernest J. Johnson to: Monadnock Humane Society, 101 West Swanzey Rd. Swanzey, NH. 03446. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel and Crematories, 44 Maple Ave. Keene, NH. 03431. www.cheshirefamilyfuneralhome.com
