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Charles Johnson Obituary

Charles Eric Johnson, aka Charles E. Johnson III, came into this world on March 5, 1959 and left all too soon on November 3, 2017. The first born to Charles and Yvonne Johnson, big brother to Craig and Tracey. Friend, confidante and mentor to hundreds. Always with a bright smile, a friendly word and so many talents, Charles naturally attracted friends, many for a lifetime, beginning as a student at St. Francis De Paula, then St. Philip Neri, St. Ignatius College Prep and Columbia College, from which he graduated. He studied sound recording engineering, where he honed his craft as a master studio producer, indulging his love of musical composition and technical wizardry. He was lucky to do the work he loved his entire life. Also a self-taught musician, Charlie learned to play many instruments by ear, wrote hundreds of songs and played in bands throughout his life. An avid collector of vintage toys, music and other treasures, he had a Google-like recall of their origins and facts of all kind. A true perfectionist, if Charlie built it, fixed it, created or tinkered on it, there was no doubt of the outcome. With so many interests and talents, his influence, impact and friendships spread far and wide. A devoted son, great brother and friend who was always eager to lend a hand or ear, "Charlie Horse," "cj3," will be greatly missed by the family and hundreds of friends and colleagues whose lives he graced and leaves behind. Services to celebrate his life will be held at St. Philip Neri Church, 2132 E. 72nd St., Chicago, at 11:00a.m. on Saturday, November 11, 2017; light repast in the SPN School Auditorium at 10:00. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society or ASPCA.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Nov. 9, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Charles Johnson

Sponsored by Chicago Sun-Times.

Not sure what to say?





Craig

November 3, 2024

Always missing you Charlie man. Loving you and will never be used to your absence.

Craig

March 5, 2024

Thinking of you Charlie on what would be your 65th birthday today. Miss you more as the years go rolling by. Love and see you when I get there.

Craigie

November 3, 2022

Five years ago this morning Charlie I had that numbing call with the police. I miss you so much and am forever thinking about the what ifs. See you when I see you brother.

Craig-O

November 3, 2021

Loving you, missing you and recounting so many talks each and every day.

Wrote this for my Piscean brother who took arete to heart. Miss him I will

Brian Reynolds

November 18, 2017

My heart goes out to the Johnsons and all of us who will miss Charlie

November 13, 2017

My deepest sympathies to Charlie's family. It was an honor to work with Charlie for almost 20 years. He was a great musician, dedicated Hawks fan, but I will always remember Charlie for his love of dogs. He truly had a heart for man's best friend.

We'll miss you buddy.

Dave Kuenstle

Mark Pelletier

November 12, 2017

My deepest sympathies to Charles Family. Some of my fondest memories of my years at SPN are spending time with Charles after school at his house or just walking around South Shore looking for trouble (good fun!). I always enjoyed and envied his musical talents and was uplifted by his infectious smile. He was a great friend. May we meet merrily again in heaven.

Billy O'Leary

November 12, 2017

Dear Mr. Johnson, Craigo and Tracey,

All the O'Leary's extend our deepest sympathy on the loss of Charlie. We will remember him in our prayers and thoughts. He was a magnificent person who always went out of his way for others. His kindness will always be remembered by all of us.

May God grant all of you the strength to endure this time of sadness.

Billy O'Leary

Charlie with Jimy Sohns

Dean Milano

November 11, 2017

Alice Williamson

November 11, 2017

I'm so sorry for your loss Charlie was a beautiful and gentle soul God Bless

Ashly

November 11, 2017

I'm sincerely sorry for your loss. May the cherished memories you shared together and the love you receive from God, brings you comfort.

Patti Allen

November 11, 2017

CJ was the coolest guy in SPN's class of '73. The love of music and laughter he shared with us are is legacy. Deepest sympathy to the Johnson family.

November 11, 2017

We had the pleasure of working with Charlie for 12 plus years @ NC. He was always a generous,sweet and compassionate man who embraced life with passion everyday.We know Charlie was loved by many and will be missed greatly by all.
With Loving Memories,
Steve and Russ Adams

Katherine Ellis

November 10, 2017

I'm truly honored to have a cousin who were as nice and out going as you were Charles ! My heart dropped when I heard the news of you passing , I were in complete shock !! This literally took me by surprise ! I'm sending my Deepest condolences to my Uncle Sonny , Craig and Tracey ! I love u all and my heart hurts to know you all are hurting from such a great loss in our Family ! Charles you are loved and will forever be missed !

Phil O'Leary

November 10, 2017

Charlie, it is with the deepest sense of loss I say goodbye to you. You were like a brother to me from the start, some 40+ years ago. We laughed, we cried, we dreamed the biggest dreams. Memories too numerous to recall this moment but forever a part of who and what I am. Thank you my friend. My deepest sympathies to the Johnson family, you who have always opened your hearts and home to me. -Mo

November 10, 2017

Charlie, you called me "MOM" ever since you and John became the best of friends decades ago.. I will always treasure the birthday card you gave me on my 90th birthday and you reminded me to read it. The sentiment and message seem to be meaningfully your last. Love you, son.... you will never be forgotten..... Lord, grant him eternal rest.

Isabel Nepomuceno

Michael Happel

November 10, 2017

It is nearly impossible to find the words that would adequately express my feelings of loss since learning of Charlie's passing. What I can convey is how glad I am for having known him and for having been his friend. I will celebrate his life and, especially, the many memories of our adventures together. I (Hapman) can truly say my life benefited greatly from knowing "Charlieman"!

Robert Alonzo

November 9, 2017

CJ, thanks for all the support and help you've done for everyone at Northeastern Illinois University! We will sure as hell miss you an all that you do for us. You were a really genuine man and personally I will miss you every passing day! I am thankful for even meeting such a beautiful person. Love you CJ! Rest in peace.

John Nepomuceno

November 9, 2017

My brother of a different mother. Many have been touched by you, and will be missed dearly. Condolence to Charles, Craig, and Tracy.

November 9, 2017

Such a great guy!! Gone too soon.
My condolences to all who knew him.

-BOM

American Heart Association

November 9, 2017

May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.

Craig Johnson

November 9, 2017

My big brother, my best friend, my rock. Until we meet again. I love you. Craigo.

Michael Pierick

November 9, 2017

Charlie, your talents, respectful courtesy, quiet presence, and dedication to the task at hand will be missed at Northeastern. May you rest in peace, with music at hand.

November 9, 2017

Please accept my sincerest condolences for your loss. I hope that words such as those found at John 6:40 bring you comfort at this difficult time. CR

Anna Canter Pincus

November 8, 2017

He helped me find my love for music...... I you could read my mind will always be Charlie......Thank you old friend Rest In Peace.....Prayers and thoughts to Craig and Tracy

Showing 1 - 25 of 25 results

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Memorial Events
for Charles Johnson

Nov

11

Service

11:00 a.m.

St. Philip Neri Church

2132 E. 72nd St., Chicago, IL 60654-1501

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