Patrick Joseph Johnson

My Papa (Patrick Joseph Johnson) was born on January 25, 1952 in Oakland, California. He was raised by his parents Edward and Margot Johnson, alongside his older brother Michael Johnson. Patrick grew up in San Leandro, California. He was survived by his wife Diane Johnson, his two children Jeffery Johnson and Kathleen Magaña, and his four grandchildren: Dayton, Jordan, Jaylen, and Jessica.

As Patrick began his life, at an early age he became interested in music and band. This strong interest led him to join the Weldonians, which was located originally in Oakland, California. Many had a hand in providing thoughts and experience to Patrick during his time with the Weldonians. Here are some words from the Weldonian family. "We will always remember Patrick as an enthusiastic member of the Weldonian Marching Band. He steadily earned promotion through the ranks of the band while uplifting others to become an amazing leader. He set a good example especially for the younger generation. Patrick joined the Weldonians at a young age and was a member for more than 14 years. Then, after completing his tour of duty in the Army, he returned to assist the Director & Founder of the organization. Patrick was a proficient percussionist and baton twirler eventually attaining the Drum Major role. As an impressive performer, Pat sparked energy when he led the marching band down the parade route. Pat's high kicking steps leading the band into competition review inspired band members, wowed parade crowds, and will never be forgotten! As an adult, Patrick became an official "Parade Judge." With his years of experience as a Weldonian and his love of discipline and competition, he had the opportunity to judge several parades in San Francisco as well as many events in the surrounding cities. He was a loyal Weldonian who kept the organization moving forward after the founders passed. Patrick's enthusiasm, positive energy and big smile was touched by everyone in the organization. Patrick was blessed with parents who were very involved in the Weldonians, a devoted wife, Diane, and supportive family.

Patrick met the love of his life through the Weldonians. The young lady’s name was Diane Tollis. The band was performing at Frontier Village located in San Jose, California. It was an amusement park but also had a picnic area. After Patrick and the Weldonians performed, everyone gathered in the Picnic area. Diane was sitting at the table with her mother and it flipped over. Patrick and his father ran over to save the day. They helped Diane and her mother back to their feet and you could say it was love at first sight. He struck his charm on her and finally asked if he she would join him to ride all the roller coasters at the amusement park. After this interaction, there love continued to grow and they were married March 25, 1972.

Shortly after being married, Patrick was drafted to the United States Army on April 24th, 1972 (a month later). He began his boot camp training in Monterey, California at Fort Ord. (His unit in the boot camp was Company A Third Battalion Second Burgade) From boot camp, he was stationed at Fort Benjamin Harris which was located in Indiana. He graduated from the Army's advanced data processing school at Fort Benjamin Harris and was then assigned to the data processing unit at Fort Lewis Washington. During this time in his life, Patrick finally got to reside and live with his newly wedded wife Diane. They lived in Olympia, Washington where the newlyweds experienced lots of good times and lifelong memories. Patrick was honorably discharged from the Army on April 24th, 1974. The two years following after his honorable discharge he remained active in the United States Army Reserve.

Once his time with the Army was complete, Patrick and Diane returned back to California and resided in Hayward. After returning, Patrick quickly found employment at Mervyn’s Distribution

Center. During this time, Patrick and Diane welcomed their first child Jeffery on February 25th,

1976. About three years later they also welcomed their second child Kathleen on December

18th, 1979. Five years later, the Johnson’s decided to take a chance and move out to the valley (specifically, Salida California). After some time, Patrick decided to purchase an ice cream parlor and named it "Chills On Broadway". This was one of the many highlights of his life.

Patrick explored many different careers after the Ice cream shop but eventually found his calling; He became the voice of Hawaiian Tropic or known as the "the narrator of your childhood". He MC'd for Hawaiian Tropic for many years.

As Patrick's life continued, his final career was managing a storage facility located in Folsom. California. He got the opportunity to live on the facility and truly enjoyed his time living in Folsom.

As many of you know, Patrick was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Dementia. Although some of Patrick's personality and characteristics gradually faded away due to Dementia, he also developed new ones during this journey. One in particular that stood out the most was the "Thumb Flick". The best times during this stage in his life was when someone would turn on his favorite songs. Papa would begin to dance and party no matter the situation. Dementia may have taken many things from him but it couldn't strip him from his love of music and dancing.

At the age of 71 , Patrick Joseph Johnson took the hand of Jesus Christ and entered into the heavens with the Lord on August 5th, 2023. Although it was unexpected, he was finally set free from his suffering in this world and was finally allowed to rest.

(Remembering Patrick and his life - written by Dayton Magaña)

A funeral service for Patrick will be held Thursday, August 17, 2023 from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at Lakewood Funeral Home - Heritage Chapel, 900 Santa Fe Ave, Hughson, CA 95326.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.LakewoodHughson.com for the Johnson family.