WALTER E. JOHNSON, SR. JERICHO - Walter E. Johnson, Sr., 79, of Jericho passed away Friday, Jan. 7, 2011, surrounded by his loved ones at the Fletcher Allen Hospital after a brief illness. Walter was born Aug. 13, 1931, in Lake Landing, N.C. to H.Q. Johnson and Jennie Mead. He was married to Dorothy "Dolly" Gomo Johnson for 59 years. He was a mechanic for 39 years at the Ford Company. He also owned and operated Ye Olde Tub Shop in Jericho, making hot tubs, picnic table, and Adirondack chairs. He was a member of the Green Mountain Aerie #3210 in Jeffersonville for over 30 years, where he held many offices, including Vermont state president. Walter is survived by his wife and three children, Walter Johnson, Jr. and his wife Jennifer of California, Walter is currently in Iraq, Rose Elder and her husband Charles "Chuck" of Westford, Sally Russin and her husband Wayne of Essex Center. He also leaves behind 16 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Walter is also survived by his brothers and sisters, Nora May Root of Fairfax, June Nelson of Montana, Robert Mead and his wife Donna of Hyde Park, Richard Mead and his wife Stella of Florida, Retha Mobley and her husband Henry of North Carolina, and Delma Butterfield and her husband Barry of Michigan. Walter was predeceased by his parents and sister, Alice Read. Walter leaves behind several nieces and nephews along with many greatnieces and great-nephews. There will be a celebration of Walter's life at the Green Mountain Aerie #3210, Route 108, Jeffersonville, VT 05464, on Sunday, Jan. 16, 2011 at 1 p.m., open to family and friends. Donations can be made in Walter's memory to Essex Rescue, 1 Educational Drive, Essex Junction, VT 05402. Arrangements handled by A.W. Rich Funeral Home, Essex Junction.
