LEWISTON: Reginald (Reggie) Francis Johnson, 93, of Auburn died peacefully on January 18, 2015 at the Russell Park Rehabilitation and Living Center in Lewiston, after a brief illness. A lifetime resident of Auburn, Maine, he was educated in the Auburn school system and graduated from Edward Little High School. Reggie proudly served his country in the Army Air Corps, 15th Air Force, 47th Bomb Wing, 449th Bomber Group (Heavy) during World War II. He was trained as a flight engineer/gunner on the B-24 bomber. Based at Grottaglie Airfield, Taranto, Italy, his crew flew bombing missions supporting the war efforts during the European Campaign. Highly respected by his crew for his skill, ingenuity, and selfless actions, he saved the aircraft and crew on more than one occasion. Upon discharge from the military in 1945, Reggie returned to Auburn where Fernwood Dairy, operated by his future father-in-law, George W. Mottram, employed him as a route salesman. There he met and married the former Martha Mottram. They were married on January 29, 1946, and celebrated 59 years of marriage. In the mid 1960’s they closed the dairy business and opened Fernwood Excavating on the Turner Road in Auburn. Reggie was a very proficient heavy equipment operator, well known and respected in the industry. He continued in this business until his retirement.
He was a member of the 449th Bomb Group Association, the American Legion, and St. Michael’s Episcopal Church. Reggie was very devoted to his family. His pastime activities included gardening and woodworking. He is survived by son Michael (AnneMarie) Johnson of Tucson, AZ, two grandsons Jeffrey (Kasey) Johnson of Dallas, Texas and Thomas (Stacy) Johnson of Stockton, California and five great grandchildren, his devoted Sisters-in-law Beryl Mottram of Auburn and Geneva (Adrien) Beauregard of Lewiston, and numerous nieces and nephews. Reggie was predeceased by his parents John and Grace Johnson of Auburn, his devoted and beloved wife, Martha M. Johnson, his brother Blaine (Barbara) Johnson of Massapequa Park, New York, and his brother Roger (Loretta) Johnson of South Portland. The family wishes to acknowledge and thank all of the staff at Russell Park for their dedication to Reggie's care. You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories of Reggie through his guestbook at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.
FUNERAL NOTICE:
JOHNSON---Reginald “Reggie” Francis, 93, died Jan. 18 at Russell Park Rehabilitation and Living Center in Lewiston. A graveside service and interment will take place at Evergreen Cemetery in Auburn in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Reggie's name to: St. Michael's Episcopal Church 78 Pleasant St. Auburn, ME 04210. Arrangements are under the care of The Fortin Group \ Plummer & Merrill Funeral Home, Cremation and Monument Services 217 Turner St. Auburn, 783-8545.
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