Harry "Ted" Johnson

1916 - 2011

Harry 'Ted' Johnson Resident of Walnut Creek Harry "Ted" Johnson Born San Francisco California February 8, 1916, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2011 at his home in Walnut Creek California with his loving family by his side, survived by his wife Eleanor married for 73 year. Grew up in Alameda California, started playing according at the age of 11, graduated from Alameda High School in 1932. At the age of 19 started country western nightly show Nevada Night Herders on KLX radio in Oakland; also had a daily morning show on KSFO, KYA and KGO radio for 15 years. Ted also known as "Hezzie" was Dude Martins partner, bandleader, accordion player and musical arraigner, playing theaters and big barns around Northern California. Served in the US Navy during WWII, Ted was assigned to the Naval Entertainment Unit in San Diego. After WWII, Ted and Dude commenced their radio shows on KYA. 1949 Ted and Dude Martin had one of the first produced television show on KGO called the Hoffman Hayride which commenced for three years, and then Ted had his own show called the Big Five Rodeo. Ted was founder and president of Music Unlimited in San Leandro for 40 years; president of San Leandro Rotary, president of San Leandro Chamber of Commerce, founding member and president of San Leandro Saving and Loan, and president of citizens for better government. 2002 Ted was Inducted into the Hall of Fame for Western Country Swing. Ted is survived by his three children, daughter Susann Berger and her husband Heinz, son Jay Johnson and his wife Kathy, and son Mark Johnson and survived by five grandchildren, Ted Berger, Monica Berger, Chris Johnson, Lindsey Johnson, Ashley Johnson and four great grandchildren. No services per his request, there will be a private remembrance ceremony with close friends and family. Contributions can be made to your favorite charity.