Frederick Nelson Johnson, 86, of Conover, NC, was gently gathered into the arms of His Lord and Savior, May 3, 2026. He was born on February 25, 1940, to William and Joanna (DeWispalaere) Johnson in Marion, NY. He is the second eldest among two sisters. He was a resident of Conover Nursing and Rehab Center for two years.
Fred, who was known as “Freddie” to his eldest sister, Eleanor, and youngest sister, Gloria, was born with the God-given gift to give new life to cars that had been damaged in accidents. He was always a very diligent, meticulous, hard worker. In his free time, Fred enjoyed camping and fishing. Sometimes he was fortunate enough to bring in a really big catch.
Wanderlust took hold in the early 1980’s when Fred moved to NC. He became a machinist by trade. His eye for detail helped him tremendously with his work where he was highly praised and appreciated. He was a member of the Lawing’s Chapel Baptist Church in Maiden, NC. Because the church sent weekly bulletins to him, he was able to stay connected to the church after his stroke and moving into Conover Nursing and Rehab Center.
Fred was an amazing brother, husband, father, and grandpa. He is survived by his three children: Gregory Johnson, NC; Brenda (Todd) Smith, NY; Jeffrey (Christine) Johnson, NJ; and 2 sisters: Eleanor Botelho, Maui, HI; Gloria (Stuart) Hosford, PA. He was blessed to be grandfather to 8 grandsons, 2 great grandsons, 3 great granddaughters. Also uncle, great uncle, and great-great uncle to many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to all the staff and special nurses at Conover Nursing and Rehab Center for their love and care for Fred. They are appreciative for treating Fred with love, dignity, and true respect. Special thanks also to hospice nurse, Erin, and social worker, Amy, who helped the family transition the last week before Fred's death.
