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Robert Johnson Obituary

Johnson, Robert
Maurice
Sep. 1, 1934 - Aug. 31, 2015
Robert Johnson, known to all as 'Bob', died August 31, 2015, just hours before his 81st birthday. He was an advocate for Sarasota County and the State of Florida. He was a lawyer at the firm of Johnson, Browning and Clayton and a statesman. As a State Representative and Senator, he was a staunch supporter of education and youth, the arts, the environment, and careful fiscal management and planning. He was a distinguished alumnus of both Florida State University and the University of Florida. He was appointed by President Reagan to the National Endowment of the Arts where he served for eight years. He viewed public service as a labor of love.
He was born September 1, 1934 in Barberton, Ohio. As a child of the Depression-era, his family moved frequently and was often without adequate food or shelter. His earliest childhood memories were of severe poverty and constant loyalty to his mother, Mary Elizabeth, as she bravely fought to protect her children. Motivated by a difficult and painful childhood, he desired to make a difference. He viewed public service as an ethical responsibility that he was honored to undertake.
He was a graduate of Florida State University where he was also a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity and ROTC. After graduation, he entered the Air Force and attained the rank of Captain. Upon his discharge, he pursued a Master of Divinity degree at Duke University. He moved to Gainesville, Florida to attend Law School at the University of Florida. After graduation, he was offered positions within different law firms in the state of Florida. He decided to accept a position with the law firm of Evans, Thomas and Boylston and has been a member of the Sarasota community ever since his arrival in 1964.
Although he was involved in many organizations and legislative efforts that affected the community, New College, The Ringling Museum and the preservation of the Myakka River were close to his heart. He was instrumental in the establishment of New College as a state university and was a current board member of the Trustees of New College and the New College Foundation. Additionally, he was a steadfast supporter of The Ringling Museum. As a legislator, he was able to gain funding and forge a partnership between the museum and Florida State University for the Arts programs. He loved the outdoors and the natural Florida wilderness. He worked to maintain and preserve the Myakka River for the enjoyment of future generations. He built a cabin on the Myakka River that became a refuge to be with his family and friends.
In addition to being public servant, he was a husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Pat and their four children, daughter Jeannene Mironack and her husband Michael, daughter Cecilia Troutt and her husband John, son Michael Lucci and his wife Tracy, and daughter Kathryn Sperber and her husband Kevin. He was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren, Jennifer, Audrey, Calvin, Alex, Sarah, Jackie and Adam. His five great grandchildren are Riley, Charlie, Gracie, Felix and Breanna.
Funeral Services will be held September 10, 2015 at 1:30 PM at the Church of the Redeemer. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to The New College Foundation, The Ringling Museum, Friends of The Myakka River, The Boys and Girls Clubs of America, or the YMCA.
Toale Brothers Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Herald Tribune from Sep. 6 to Sep. 7, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Johnson

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Deborah Cavanaugh

September 12, 2015

Mr. Johnson gave me my first job out of college in his legislative office. I'm so grateful for that start! I cannot express how much he influenced me. God bless.

Scott Long

September 11, 2015

Dear Pat and Family,
So many memories flood back over so many years from first meeting Bob in Mom & Dad's living room to small moments in town. Bob did so much for things I care for and I am so glad there has been such a lovely outpouring of respect for him.

Elizabeth Baldwin

September 10, 2015

It was honor to have known Sen. Johnson for the time I worked for the Sarasota County Fair Board. As a Director,he provided guidance and did so big matter or small. When I first met him, he seemed so intimidating but soon that changed to profound respect. Thank you Sen. Johnson for your gifts reached so many, for so much, for so long. God bless his family for sharing him with our comunity.

Marjorie Floyd

September 10, 2015

Senator Johnson was not only a loyal but also a very effective supporter of organizations that improved quality of life-education, the environment, the arts and other causes that inspire people. He offered sound advice to so many and delivered it in a direct style all his own. Thank you Senator Bob for all you did to benefit our community now and for generations to come. I greatly admired your balanced respect for business and the environment. The Myakka landscape owes a huge debt of gratitude to Senator Johnson. I feel privileged to have known him. My deepest sympathy to his family.

September 10, 2015

a great man that leaves a legacy to be enjoyed now and forever

Joan Tatum

September 9, 2015

Though so saddened by the loss of this great friend of Sarasota and all he stood for, I am privileged to have many memories of our contacts over the years. Bob has left the legacy of a better place for all of us still here. May the thoughts of those who honor him give you strength and comfort at this difficult time. With deepest sympathy and highest regard, Joan Tatum

Arthur Shone

September 9, 2015

For the 20 years I vacationed at 350 Golden Gate Point, Bob was a valued advisor, critic, co-worker, and friend. It was a privilege to know him. My regards and sympathies go out to Pat and the family.

Hida & Sal Randisi

September 8, 2015

Bob's work here on earth is done. He is now beginning a new venture in Heaven. We will miss you Bob until we meet again. Save a place for us.

Cathy Gagliardi

September 8, 2015

Dear Pat & Family,

Bob was an amazing one-of-a-kind individual who always treated me and my husband like gold. He touched the lives of many who will miss him greatly.

Former employee Cathy Gagliardi and husband Rich.

Sarah Edwardson

September 7, 2015

Bob meant so much to so many. He was a true friend, inspiring leader, and warmhearted human being. My deepest sympathy to his family.

September 7, 2015

Pat and Family,
A sad loss for you and for Sarasota. Bob was so so admired and respected in the community. We
Will remember him and miss him.

Nancy and Charlie Blackburn

September 7, 2015

Dear Pat & family,
We are so sorry for your loss. We have known Bob since Jaycee days, and I think we each had such respect for each other. We always enjoyed seeing you both at so many things we attended. He got as much out of life as anyone could. We shall always remember him fondly. Love, Ron & Marilyn Royal

Jim Tollerton

September 7, 2015

All Honor to his name.

September 6, 2015

Bob was a special friend. He loved our community and his wonderful family. I shall always remember the fun we had together. Elliott Metcalfe

Joan brand

September 6, 2015

Pat and Family,
Our entire family is so deeply saddened to learn of Bob's passing. Indeed he was a friend to us all. We will always remember not only what he did for Sarasota, but especially his friendship and kindness to us and our family. Truly a loss, however we will always remember Bob with joy and fondness.
Our thoughts are with you.

The Brand Family

Bill Samuels, Florida Panther Project

September 6, 2015

Quite simply, one of the finest men I have ever have a chance to know or work alongside. His depth of character, and loyalty to friends, will never be forgotten, and his passing leaves a huge void in the Sarasota landscape. May God richly Bless his family at this time.

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