Carl Johnson Obituary
In Loving Memory of

Carl William Johsnon

1960 ~ 2023

Obituary of Carl William Johsnon

It is with immense sadness and the heaviest of hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Carl "GuitarCarl" Johnson on Friday, January 20, 2023 at Meadows of Dorchester in Niagara Falls at the age of 62. Left to mourn this loss are his brothers John and Ken; his sisters Leah Richmond (Mark) and Marlene, his nieces Crystal Johnson, Myra Jones (Cary), Willamina Johnson, his nephews, Dylan Janze and Steve Richards, his Aunt Ellen Eldridge, his cousins Ines Lampinen (Ray) and Joy Cook (Marvin) as well as the many friends he has made wherever he went. Carl is predeceased by his parents Veikko (Vic) and Maire (Myra), niece Victoria Johnson (Eric), Aunt Toini Johnson, Uncles Bill Johnson, Paul and George Mackie and cousins Lynda Johnson and Suzanne DeCuypere.

Carl faced many struggles throughout his life, right from birth however he never let any one of them interfere with his unique spirit. He was a very special individual to a lot of people. He was witty, engaging, loving, intelligent, musical, artistic and very humorous. He could be an infuriating imp at times too, but it only made him even more loveable. He resided in long term care facilities after he suffered a stroke in 2005. Interestingly, at each, someone wound up giving him the nickname “Professor”.

Carl had many passions; especially the Beatles, remembering and discussing Sudbury, drawing maps, cars, dogs and memories! He was an amazing artist, writer of deep songs and clever poetry. He loved playing the guitar and piano. However, I do believe being with or around people, especially family, was his main passion. Carl made it a point to remember everyone and once met, Carl was never forgotten! Our world is much dimmer now without his light and humour in it.

In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place. Arrangements have been entrusted to Essentials Cremation and Burial Services. A celebration to honour the life that Carl lived will be held at a location, date and time yet to be determined. Email [email protected] for further information.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario in memory of Carl.

Service Information

There are no upcoming public services scheduled or the service has occurred in the past.

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Debbie D & Donna S
1 year ago

We send sincere condolences to Carl’s family and friends. My sister and I came to know Carl during the 3 yrs our mother lived at The Meadows of Dorchester (Aug 2017-Dec 2020). Our mother (Anja) and Carl lived on the same unit, & shared a favorite outdoor spot: turn left out the front door, & enjoy the designated area at least 9 meters from the entrance! We spent many hours there with Carl & our Mom. Despite Carl’s inability to communicate in a conventional way (due to a major stroke & resulting aphasia), we came to know Carl & his story using alternative ways of communicating (e.g., by us asking him yes/no questions, or reading his brief writings). Carl was always ready with a smile and a greeting. He worked hard to learn & to say our names & would greet us by reciting them each time we saw him! He shared with us his Finnish heritage; our mother’s parents were immigrants from Finland & our mother was a first generation Canadian! As second generation, my sister & I enjoyed sharing with Carl our limited knowledge of Finnish words & phrases! Carl “told us” of his history as a talented guitarist- we are sorry we never got to see him perform! We are thankful for having known Carl. We wish much peace & comfort to his family and friends as they recall fond memories of days gone by!

Kim Makela - Sanderson
1 year ago

I am so sorry to hear of Carl passing. He was a great guy. Our Mother’s were best friends so we all grew up together. We were like a family in our younger years. Life moved on and so did we. I was reconnected with Carl through Leah. It was so nice to see him in the two zoom visits we had With the family and friends.
I have so many memories of our childhood years. Hanging out with Carl and his buddies in Gatchell. We had so much fun. Going to the camp. Jumping from the high rock. Going for a sauna. Swimming in the lake. Great memories.
Rest In Peace Carl. You have lots of visits to do up there.
You will be busy. Thanks for the memories.
My deepest condolences to all his family and friends.

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Rita De Luca-Gates
1 year ago

I met Carl at Meadows when my mom was a resident there. We had a number of conversations during that time and he was able to let me know that music was an important part of his life. I always enjoyed connecting with him. I send my condolences to his family on behalf of mine.

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