THOMAS ALLEN JOHNSON 1947 - 2023
Thomas Johnson passed away September 24, 2023 at the San Francisco VA hospital due to complications after surgery. Tom loved his country and served in the Army from 1966-1968.
Tom was born on April 30, 1947 in Hayward, CA to Leroy and Emmaline Johnson. His only sibling, Hank Johnson, preceded him in death in 2016.
Tom is survived by his wife Jan, son Andy Johnson and daughter-in-law Jody, daughter Brooke Kauffman and son-in-law Jay Kauffman, grandchildren Noah and Jordan Kauffman, and step-grandchildren Annie and Bella Gonzalez, and many Andrews family in laws.
Tom and Jan were married 54 years and spent half that time in Mammoth Lakes, CA and half in Hammil Valley, CA. Both Andy and Brooke attended 12 years of school in Mammoth and played many sports, which Tom was an avid supporter and most often attended all of their games.
While in Mammoth, Tom worked in many fields, including MMSA bus driver, owning a cab company and bus transportation company, owning an auto parts store, a chainman for a land surveying company, and then owning TJ’S Merc in Chalfant Valley.
Those who knew Tom knew his love of family, music, classic cars, BBQ and laughter. He had a passion for fast cars, especially Chevy’s, and built and raced them as a young man in Southern California. Later in life, Nascar became his passion.
Tom was a stoic, witty, gruff man with a heart of gold. A family friend said, “I will remember Tom as an authentic straight shooter and all around real deal.” Tom left us with empty hearts but memories full of his legendary sense of humor, hearty laugh, and true joy of life.
Tom was a fighter extraordinaire having survived Stage 4 colorectal cancer in 2012, and multiple surgeries after. His wife, Jan, was at his side with her unwavering love, support, perseverance and strength. Their bond was palpable and a true testament of love everlasting.
He will be greatly missed by many, especially his wonderful sarcasm. A memorial service will be held in the spring of 2024, time and date TBD.