James [Jim] Johnson
Died peacefully in his sleep Oct 17th, 10 days after his 77th birthday. After years of health issues, Jim and his wife Bonnie recently relocated to Kingston to be closer to his daughters, Jana and Krista, and granddaughter Ayla. He was on a bit of an upswing, so his death was unexpected at this time, but going to sleep in your own bed and not waking up seems to be a blessing.
Jim was born outside of Thunder Bay, and was raised as a First Generation Canadian in Fort William; his mother being from England and his father from Sweden. Jim is predeceased by his mother, Marjorie Johnson [nee Limer], father William [Bill] Johnson, sister Barbra MacGibbon [nee Johnson] and survived by his brother Peter Johnson.
With coming of age Jim moved to Powassan, Ontario for his first teaching job at 21, bringing the love of his life, Bonnie to join him. Bonnie & Jim both taught for 30+ years in the Powassan area, where Jim was also involved in Municipal politics, [including being the Mayor for many years], taught [and by taught I also mean scared the pants off] nearly the entire town, and acted as a chauffeur to Krista & Jana, and all of their friends.
After years of teaching, then years of retirement, Jim and Bonnie moved west to Agassiz BC to live below beautiful Mount Cheam. 13 years of making connections and fostering community made Jim a well known & well loved face at the Seniors’ Association, ACE Alternative School, and mostly, Legion Branch 32 where he was a life member and Past President. The town of Agassiz was heartbroken when Jim and Bonnie moved back to Ontario this spring.
Most who met Jim were first enchanted with his tall, handsome presence & icy blue eyes, then continued to be impressed by his passion for community building, engagement with initiatives he believed in, and commitment to teaching and educating at all levels.
Jim, Dad, Grandpa, Mr J, Jimmy J - he was admired by most, revered by a few, and he’ll be missed by many. He was a heck of a man.
Bonnie Johnson [nee Bennett], Krista Johnson [& daughter Ayla Kilby], Jana Johnson [Jay Way] will host a Celebration of Life in Powassan (details to come).
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