Richard R. Johnson

Richard R. Johnson, 72, of September Way, Avon, beloved husband of Patricia (Wentworth) Johnson, died peacefully Sunday, (May 4, 2003) at home, after a long illness. He was born May 4, 1931, in Hartford, son of the late James R. and Mary Ethelreda (Reynolds) Johnson and had lived in Avon for the past 29 years. He was a veteran, having served in the U.S. Air Force. He worked for years in the automobile business, both as Vice President of J.R. Johnson, Chrysler Plymouth on Homestead Avenue in Hartford, President of Johnson Auto Company in New Britain and later in the sales department at O'Neil's Chevrolet in Avon. He enjoyed a late life career change and worked as a Gold Courier, which allowed him to travel throughout South America. He was a member of the Prince Thomas of Savoy Society, Avon. Dick was a great fan of the movies and accumulated a huge collection of videos, which he loved to share with family and friends. His favorite place on earth was the Rangely Lakes area, where he spent many summers, fishing and sitting on the porch, looking out at what he called "God's Country." His quick wit and wonderful sense of humor will remain in the hearts of all who loved him. A loving and devoted father, he leaves his two daughters, Vickie Underwood and her husband, Steven of New Hartford, Linda Johnson and her fiance, Glen Grigerek of Barkhamsted; a brother, Gerald Johnson of West Hartford; and three grandchildren, David, Allison and Michael Underwood. He was predeceased by a sister, Rita Bakulski. Friends may call at the Vincent Funeral Home, 120 Albany Turnpike, Canton, Wednesday, May 7, 5-8 p.m. Funeral will be Thursday, May 8, 9:15 a.m. from the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial, 10 a.m. in the Church of Saint Ann, Avon. Burial will be in Mount St. Benedict Cemetery, Bloomfield. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Helen & Harry Gray Cancer Center, Fund Development, c/o Hartford Hospital, 80 Seymour Street, P.O. Box 5037, Hartford, CT 06102-5037.