Andrew C. "Andy" Johnson

October 9, 2017

Andrew C. Johnson

PHILLIPSTON- Andrew C. “Andy” Johnson, 98, of Baldwinville Road and holder of the Boston Post cane as Phillipston oldest resident, died peacefully at home on Friday, October 06, 2017 surrounded by loved ones.

Born in Gardner on April 14, 1919, he was a son of the late Albine and Ellen Johnson

On September 19, 1942, Andy was drafted into the United States Army and served proudly during World War Two and was honorably discharged on January 13, 1946. While in the Army, he was stationed in the South Pacific with time in New Guinea, the Philippines, China and Japan. Later in life, Andy would share stories of the natives climbing trees to harvest coconuts for the soldiers as well as the disarmament of Japan.

In 1950, Andy married his sweetheart, Jeanne M. (Oliver) and they enjoyed over 64 years of marriage until her death on March 25, 2015.

A hard working man, Andy was the boiler operator for the S. Bent and Brothers Company in Gardner for many years, working up to his late 70’s before retiring.

Andy enjoyed puttering in his yard and was cutting his own firewood well into his 90’s. He had taken part in Petersham’s Fourth of July parade this past summer as a veteran.

Andy loved animals, especially cats, and was a firm believer that you took responsibility for your pets.

The family is thankful to the caregivers and hospice that granted Andy’s wish to remain in his own home that he had built and lived in since 1951.

Survivors include his son, Jon Johnson of South Royalston; a grandson, Jacob Johnson and his wife, Jessica, of Danvers; a great grandson, Cody Johnson of Danvers; a brother, Albine Johnson and his companion, Dot, of Bellows Falls, Vermont; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents and wife, Andy was predeceased by a daughter in law, Louise Marie Johnson on November 11, 2007. Andy was also predeceased by two sisters, Agnes Lemere and Ellen Yell.

There are no calling hours.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 12, 2017 at 10:00 a.m., at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange.

Interment with military honors will follow in the North New Salem Cemetery, New Salem.

In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the Athol Animal Shelter, c/o Athol Police, 280 Exchange Street, Athol, MA 01331

Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is directing the arrangements.

You may offer your sympathy online at www.wittyfuneralhome.com