Robert Warren Johnson, 90
"Can Man of Eltingville" donated proceeds to charity
Robert Warren Johnson, 90 years old, peacefully passed away at Richmond University Medical Center in Staten Island, N.Y., on Tuesday, July 16, 2019.
Born in Rocky Hollow Stapleton to Edward Johnson and Anna (Fischer) Johnson, he lived in Eltingville, Staten Island, for 60 years before moving to Graniteville to enjoy the final year of his life.
Robert was predeceased by his loving wife of 49 years, Gertrude (Millan) Johnson. He was a devoted father and leaves behind three beautiful daughters: Laurie Johnson, Delia Quisenberry and her husband Larry, and Cathy Hiester and her husband David. He was blessed with four grandchildren: Tommy and his wife Amy, Lauren and her husband Chris, Liam, and Yvonne. He adored his three great-grandchildren: Lincoln, Evelyn, and baby Richard.
Robert took great pride in sharing that five of his family members are doctors and at this time, one more is determined to continue the family tradition to study medicine.
Robert leaves behind his beloved friend of 14 years, Ann Wright Borkowski, who filled the end of his life with laughter and joy.
Robert, eighth of 11 children, was a graduate of Curtis High School in 1947 and independently put himself through school, earning a BA from Wagner College in 1960. Robert worked for Bankers Trust and JP Morgan Chase as a contract analyst, utilizing his flair for technical reading and writing throughout his working career.
Robert was a longtime and avid member of AARP, New Dorp Chapter 2712, where he was the recipient of the "Community Service Award" for outstanding service to the association and community. He delighted in playing cards and socializing with friends at Mount Loretta Friendship Club. Robert was also the proud and loyal member of the Anderson-Lagno VFW Post, where he enjoyed comaraderie.
Robert was known throughout his community as the "Can Man of Eltingville," collecting bottles/cans and taking the money he earned to make donations to several charities. On Nov. 13, 2005, Woodrow Methodist Church honored him with a plaque for raising enough money to paint the exterior of the church and his endless generosity.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Fresh Air Fund (freshair.org) or The ALS Association (als-ny.org). Robert had fond memories and was grateful for his summer camp experience provided to him by The Fresh Air Fund-this was one of the contributing factors that instilled the love of nature in him. He also lovingly cared for his wife, Trudy, until her passing from ALS and had the wish to continue supporting the ALS organization to help other families burdened with the disease.
Robert ("Bob") will be best remembered for his bird calls and love of nature, enjoyment caring for his pristine lawn and garden, neighborly kindness, savory soups, and generous heart.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, July 20, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at Casey McCallum Rice South Shore Funeral Home, 30 Nelson Ave., Staten Island, N.Y.
Log on to dignitymemorial.com for more information.
Casey-McCallum Rice
South Shore Funeral Home
30 Nelson Ave.
Staten Island, N.Y. 10308
(718) 317-7600
Published in Staten Island Advance on July 19, 2019
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