David Larue Johnson, Jr.

David Larue Johnson, Jr., passed away peacefully at his home in Surprise, AZ, on February 12, 2026, with his two daughters by his side, following a courageous year-long battle with cancer. He was 85.

Born on October 17, 1940, in Hartford, CT, Dave was the son of Emelyn (Brungart) and David Larue Johnson, Sr. He spent his early childhood in Higganum before moving to Newington before eighth grade. He graduated from Newington High School in 1958 and soon after proudly served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Caloosahatchee, an experience that allowed him to travel the world.

After his military service, Dave married the late Judith Lasker. They made their home in Newington and cherished annual family vacations in North Truro on Cape Cod and later in Virginia Beach.

In his twenties, Dave discovered what would become a lifelong passion: golf. Dedicated to constant improvement, he became a scratch golfer and won multiple club championships at East Hartford Golf Club. He had an uncanny ability to recall every hole of every round he played, and when he wasn't on the course, he was watching golf on television.

On July 29, 1986, Dave married Dale Hadfield in Hawaii, beginning nearly 40 beautiful and loving years together. That same year, after more than 25 years with Connecticut Shower Door, he founded his own company, Shower Door & Window, in West Hartford. Lori worked alongside him briefly in the early days as the business got off the ground. Soon after, Patti and her husband, the late Tim O'Neill, took the helm. Together they led the company for more than 20 years, growing it into a thriving and respected business and carrying forward Dave's strong work ethic, values, and entrepreneurial spirit—furthering the legacy he was so proud to build. In time, his grandson Connor joined the business as well, continuing the family tradition and contributing to the company's ongoing success.

In 2008, Dave and Dale retired to Surprise, AZ, where they embraced life in a warm and welcoming golf community. They enjoyed golfing together, socializing with friends, taking long scenic drives—including summer road trips back to Connecticut—and cheering on UConn basketball.

Even throughout the past year, Dave maintained his trademark optimism. He often reflected on what a wonderful life he had lived and shared that he had no regrets—a testament to his gratitude and enduring spirit.

Dave is survived by his daughters, Lori Johnson and her partner, Chris Turner, and Patti O'Neill; his grandchildren, Rachel and Jackson Lord, Sarah White and her husband, Andre, and Connor O'Neill and his wife, Gina; his great-grandchildren, Dawson and Rhys White; and his sister, Barbara Slocum. He was predeceased by his brother, Keith Johnson, and his granddaughter, Katherine Judith Lord.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Caring Hands Hospice—especially Lewis, Neal, Elaine, Gina, and Kirk—for their compassionate and loving care.

Celebrations of Dave's life will be held at a later date in Arizona and Connecticut.