Edwin Nels Johnson

Ed Johnson passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, at the age of 91, just two weeks shy of turning 92, with his wife and son beside him. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jeanne, and his son, David.

Born in St. Boniface, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Ed was the youngest child of Flora ("Flo") and Nels August Johnson, and the brother of Marion (Chick) and Margaret (Godwin), all of whom predeceased him.

Fondly called "Wee Eddie" by his family as a child, he grew up in a close and loving household. From an early age, he was curious about how things worked—a passion he carried throughout his life. At age nine, Ed moved with his family to Vancouver, B.C., and later spent most of his life in Burnaby. He attended Hastings School, Templeton and Point Grey Junior Highs, and Magee High School.

After leaving high school early to help support his family, Ed worked in the parts department at Fred Deeley, then in sales with Trailmobile, and later joined Collins Manufacturing, a company that built truck bodies. He eventually became general manager and owner, guiding the company through innovations in refrigeration and body design. Throughout his career, Ed was known for his honesty, integrity, and steady, thoughtful approach.

In 1962, Ed married Jeanne Kennett, to whom he was introduced by her grandfather. Together, they shared a partnership of 63½ years marked by love, mutual support, and shared faith. The birth of their son David in 1969 was one of Ed's greatest joys. As a father, he was firm yet gentle, humble, and honest, always striving to set a good example. Together, they enjoyed many family road trips, often down to the States—usually to Seattle, and sometimes to California.

Faith remained central to Ed's life. As one of Jehovah's Witnesses, he devoted his time to teaching others about God's Kingdom and the hope found in the Bible. He volunteered at conventions and in Kingdom Hall construction, working on sound and public address systems. He also volunteered his time to visit ones who were in Burnaby General Hospital to provide spiritual encouragement.

Ed had a lifelong love of technology, aviation, and learning. He built electronics, worked with early computers and databases, earned his private pilot's license with an instrument rating, and enjoyed tinkering in his workshop on electronics or other projects. He also loved watching hockey and football, playing golf with friends, and sharing a good laugh or enjoying a comedy. His wife fondly called him "Mr. Fixit," as he could fix just about anything around the house.

He will be remembered as a steady and dependable husband and father, loyal to family and friends, and a man of integrity in both word and action—approachable, deeply caring, and always there when he was needed.

A memorial service will be held at 1:30 PM on February 28, 2026, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 5975 Sunset Street, Burnaby, B.C.