Carl A. Johansen

Carl A. Johansen, beloved husband of 66 years to Judith E. Johansen (Gilson), made his last cast on Monday, April 13, 2026, at the age of 91. Carl landed in our Lord’s safe landing net surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Boston on July 30, 1934, Carl was the son of the late Johan Johansen and Hedwig (Riedle) Johansen. He was raised in Roxbury and graduated from UMASS Amherst Stockbridge School of Agriculture where he met his square-dancing partner and the love of his life, Judy. Carl enlisted in the US Navy and proudly served aboard the USS Forrest B. Royal (DD-872) during the Vietnam War. He and Judy began raising their family in Dorchester, moved to the “burbs” of Randolph and eventually retired to Sandwich for the next 30 years.

Fishing became a passion of Carl’s at a young age. He fished the North Shore, Boston Harbor, and Cape Cod Canal to Race Point. There was hardly a beach or pier where “The Fish’n Fool” didn’t cast a line. Carl believed in serving his community ~ he was a Master Instructor with the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife Urban Angler Program. He loved passing his wisdom onto those new to the sport of fishing. Carl was also involved with the Boy Scouts, as a parent and as a Scoutmaster, leading many camping excursions from New England to Canada.

Carl was a prolific writer and storyteller; his family and friends spent many hours listening to his “tales of lore”. He authored many articles for The New England Fisherman, On the Water, Stripers Online and My Fishing Cape Cod “Angler’s Den”.

In his retirement, Carl immersed himself in town politics by attending Selectboard, Annual and Special Town meetings, frequently speaking as an advocate for fair public policies. He was an active member of Clark-Haddad Post 188 American Legion and was instrumental in the creation and placement of the new Sandwich Vietnam War Memorial.

Carl will be greatly missed by his sons David (Lisa), Bill (Michelle), and Erik (Tracy); their children: Austin (Becca), Bobby (Elizabeth), Joshua (Faith), Caleb (Hannah), Matthew and Zachary; and great grandchildren: Ruby and Alby; plus his dear nieces and nephews. Carl is survived by his sisters Martha (Bob) and Margot (Paul). He is predeceased by his brothers and sister, George (Edith), Richard (Rosemary), and Irene (Frank). Carl was a devoted friend to many ~ fishing buddy to all.

Peace and Prayers Dad, Peace and Prayers.

The burial will take place at the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Connery Avenue, Bourne, MA 02532, on Tuesday, May 26th at 10:15AM followed by a Memorial Service and a Celebration of Life at The Dan'l Webster Inn, 149 Main St Suite #1, Sandwich, MA 02563, at 11:30AM.