Patricia A. Johnson

Patricia A. "Trit" Johnson, 91, died on November 19th of a brief illness after a long and active life. An enthusiastic competitor, Trit sailed, swam, skied and played paddle and tennis into her 80's. She was an inspiration to those who knew her. She enjoyed young and old and greeted all with generous, cheerful and thoughtful optimism. Born in 1922 in Hudson, NY, Trit was the daughter of Russell C. and Marion H. Johnson and was predeceased by her sister Edith J. Howes. She grew up in Kinderhook, NY and summered on Pleasant Bay in South Orleans eventually making the Bay her home. She attended Lasell College and The University of Vermont. A variety of occupations including apple spraying, retail, stewardess for United Airlines, first bartender at Wequassett Inn, 10 years at Mount Tremblant as a ski instructor, opening a travel agency in NYC and public relations for Christopher Ryder House and Thompson's Clam Bar as well as initially funding WFCC FM Radio kept her very busy. Nothing ever prevented Trit from enjoying the "bay" she loved despite the many devastating ocean storms and encroaching shoreline of Pleasant Bay. Trit was truly a happy soul in fearless pursuit of life. As an accomplished sportswoman on the courts, swimming and sailing daily and rounding up a group to harmonize a few songs, to go dancing and to hear good jazz by night as well as enjoying the Cape Cod Symphony and summer theatre she still found time to be a terrific friend to many characters around the world. Always ready to enjoy a "smile" Trit touched lives in a very special way. All who knew Trit agree that Trit loved life and life loved her. Trit is survived by her five nieces and nephews, David Manning of Livorno, Italy, Diane Brown of Harwich, Deborah Oconnor of Dennis, Dehlia Wright of St. Augustine and Drucilla Howes of Brewster. Such a positive and important part of our lives, our "Aunt Tut", "Trit" or "Tritzel" will be greatly missed. Donations in her memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, www.woundedwarriorproject.org. A Celebration of Trit's life will be held in April. For online condolences, please visit www.nickerson funerals.com