Carl Nathan Johnson

This photo is from the hike we did in Carl's memory.

Carl was a member of my barefoot hiking group, and I was always glad when he showed up. It was obvious to me that Carl had a kind heart and cared about others. I wish we could have had more time to spend together.

One time, when I was meeting Carl for a hike with some other friends, one of the group (who will not be named) accidentally got his vehicle stuck precariously in a ditch. Immediately upon seeing the incident, Carl sprang to action, ran across the road, and assessed the situation. He recalled seeing some planks of wood on the side of the road where he'd parked, which he expeditiously went and retrieved. Carl and the others positioned the planks so that the knuckle-headed driver could safely pull his vehicle out, avoiding costly damage and/or the expenses of a tow. Thanks, Carl!

Even though Carl had such a a quiet demeanor, and stood back to watch others, I found him to be gentle and shy, yet wanting to talk. He was awkward at first with our small talk, but the longer we spoke, he warmed to me and shared some of his feelings the few times we were at the same meetings in Hendersonville. He had even honored my home when I held a celebration of life last spring. To say that I am saddened that a young life has passed too soon, it is even more heartbreaking that it was someone as kind and gentle as Carl. May his heart and soul find the peace and serenity he was seeking. My condolences to his family and friends.

I will remember his shy warm smile. A beautiful and gentle soul.