Obituary of Dean M. Johnson

Dean M. Johnson, age 77 of Wilson NY, died Friday March 23, 2012 at his home under the loving care of his family and Niagara Hospice. Dean was born June 10, 1934 in Olean, NY, the son of the late Clarence and Aletha (Richardson) Johnson. He graduated in 1952 from the Center Vocational Program at Barker High School where he studied Aviation Mechanics. After serving in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves, Dean started Niagara Auto Body Supply in Lockport with a partner,, Richard Brauer. It serviced both retail and commercial auto parts and supplies throughout Niagara and Orleans Counties. The business was sold in the 1970's and Dean then owned and operated the Beccue Boat Basin and the Sunset Bay Marina in Wilson for the next 30 years retiring in 2002. At the same time he owned and operated the Basin Marina Restaurant in Wilson which is now known as the Sunset Bar & Grill. Dean enjoyed working alongside his wife, Diane, in his business ventures. Dean was a gifted auto body, collision, and glass man as well as a gifted engine/mechanic repairman. He loved his boats, the cars he owned and restored and the many hours of enjoyment both gave him. He also enjoyed spending time with his granddaughter, Holly, as well as his nephews, Robert, Nick, and Adam. He was most proud of his 1937 LaSalle Coup which was displayed at Disneyland, CA; and his 1939 LaSalle Hearse and 1936 Cord which were in the movie "Return of Elliott Ness." He was a devoted Friend of Bill W. and a proud member of the R.O.M.E.O's. Dean spent the last 22 years with his beloved wife, Diane (Williams) Johnson. He is also survived by his children, Judy (Nicholas) Paonessa of Niagara Falls, NY, Christy (Nicholas) Kent and Kathy (Jeremy) Kirsh both of Chesapeake, VA, and Kenneth Johnson of Catawba, NC.; his grandchildren, Holly Granat, Drew & Alexis Stewart, and Isabelle Kirsh; a brother, Donald Johnson of Hinsdale, NY; a sister in law Dawn (Joe) Paul; and several other nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a sister, Beverly Flint. The family will receive friends at Immaculate Conception RC Church, 4671 Townline Rd. (Rte. 429) Ransomville on Saturday, March 31, from 10:00 to 11:00 am. A Celebration of Dean's Life will follow at 11:00 am, with the Rev. Joseph Badding officiating. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the Wilson Volunteer Fire Co. No. 1 Ambulance Fund, P.O. Box 609, 250 Young St., Wilson, NY 14172-0609 or to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Dr., Lockport, NY 14094. Arrangements have been entrusted to HARDISON FUNERAL HOME, 3648 Ransomville Rd., Ransomville.