Bertil Alvan Johnson

Mr. Bertil Alvan Johnson “Al & B.A.” of Wethersfield, CT, devoted husband of Joan (Anderson) Johnson for 64 years, passed peacefully on October 19, 2018 with his family by his side. Al was born in Warwick, Rhode Island on July 31, 1927 to the late Nils Bertil and Ellen (Lovén) Johnson. He was predeceased by his brother and sister-in-law, Daniel and Joyce Johnson. Al grew up in Warwick in a home his father built with loving hands. He was raised in a musical family and became an accomplished piano player (Burt Bacharach was his bunkmate at summer music camp). While growing up Al assisted his dad and crew in building homes throughout the state of Rhode Island. His family centered their lives at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Warwick. Al graduated from Lockwood High School, Class of 1945. He received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Rhode Island in 1950 and was a member of the Phi Mu Delta fraternity. While at URI, his fraternity was invited to record a selection of songs, including – There is Nothin’ Like a Dame, Dem Dry Bones, The Battle Hymn of the Republic – all accompanied by Al at the piano while he joyfully sang along. After graduating from URI, he served in the United States Navy stationed on Staten Island, New York. Al began his career with Scott Paper Company in Buffalo, NY. Subsequent to accepting a position with IBM in Hartford, CT, Al and Joan settled in Wethersfield to raise their family. He was with IBM until his retirement and was inducted into the Hundred Percent Club throughout his career. Al was an avid golfer and a member of Wethersfield Country Club for over 50 years. At 80 years young, he shot his age. He thoroughly enjoyed and was grateful for the countless number of tournaments and rounds he played with fellow members, good friends and his family. He was a life-long, devoted Red Sox fan as well. Al and his family were dedicated and active members of Emanuel Lutheran Church in Hartford for over 60 years where Al served in many leadership roles and enjoyed singing with the Emanuel Choir. Treasured will be the memories! Along with his wife Joan, Al is survived by his son Steven and his wife Robin, his daughter Karin and his three grandchildren; James, Daniel and Stefanie. He also leaves his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Don and Nancy Clark along with his nieces and nephews; Kristin, Kate, Mark, Kurt, Bethany & Carolyn. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Emanuel Lutheran Church, 311 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT 06106 or Calumet, P.O. Box 236, W. Ossipee, NH 03890. A private ceremony will be held in his honor. For online condolences, please visit www.taylorandmodeen.com.