Gavin Stuart Johnson

A man of many accomplishments, Gavin became a living legend to those who knew him well. The 74 years of his life were filled with adventure, success, curiosity, and love. Gavin was born in Reading, England on November 19, 1948 to Bernard and Doris (Pope) Johnson, who proceeded him in passing.

He is survived by his three children, Beau, Tara (Nico Gonzales), and Joe, his grandchildren, Presley and Rhys Gonzales, and his former wife, Agnes. He also leaves behind his siblings, Carol (Jimmy Adair), Sharon (Jeff Treister), Debbie (Bill Kaiser), and Paul Johnson. Gavin will be missed by many friends and additional family members as well.

Gavin was a man who loved life and knew how to live. He was intellectually curious and highly intelligent, possessing both a powerful mind and a gentle heart. He was sharp as they come, with a quick wit and a hint of playful mischief often dancing in his twinkling eyes. He always told the best jokes. Gavin was a masterful storyteller, and he had so many great stories to tell.

He served in the United States Navy and travelled all over the world. Following his service, Gavin completed college and went on to obtain a Master's degree in Mathematics from San Jose State University. Gavin found his professional calling as a computer programmer for IBM, where he spent over 30 illustrious years, earning numerous accolades, creating all sorts of patents, and retiring as a Senior Technical Staff Member.

Gavin will be remembered most for being a wonderful father to Beau, Tara, and Joe…and an amazing granddad to Presley and Rhys. Dad was always there with love, advice, and support when we needed him most. The world will never be the same, and we are so grateful for the years we had together with you. We love you so much, and as long as we are on this planet, your spirit will live in and through all of us.Dad always seemed to be the smartest and most capable person in any room or situation. We were never afraid or worried when he was around, because we knew he could handle anything that might happen. He proved this time and again throughout his life. Dad was our hero, and he always will be. He taught us so much about life, and through his example, he showed us how to live. We sought his advice and counsel often, and he always helped us find our way…by explaining how we could think everything through and providing much needed perspective. Dad always knew what to say, what not to say, and how to say what we needed to hear. Dad wanted to be remembered as a good and gentle man. He was the best man we have ever known, and one of the gentlest too. We will think of you often and remember fondly the many happy times we had together. We will be forever grateful for having the most wonderful, brave, and loving man that we have ever known for our Dad. We will miss you and hold your memory close until we meet again in the next life. We love you so much, Dad.

Funeral Service with Military Honors will be held at 11:00 am at the California Central Coast Veterans Cemetery, located in Seaside. A Celebration of Gavin's Life will be held later this year. To attend, please contact the Johnson Family: [email protected]

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