David Johnson Obituary

It was only recently that I learned of David's departure in 2010. Dave and I met at Hartigan Elementary School in October 1968 when we were both Teacher Corps interns. I can't honestly say that I ever knew him really well, but he was always a good source of encouragement, especially after it became apparent that I would always be an excruciatingly unsuccessful teacher. I recall how we would often chat in the teacher's lounge, two anxious young men in their early 20s, spinning ideas about what we would do when our internship ended (and I was astounded to learn that he'd stayed on at Hartigan for 35 years!) I remember his quick wit and his talent at the piano keyboard. Especially memorable is when the two of us, plus the other Teacher Corps interns assigned to Hartigan at the time, entertained the regular faculty at a party by singing the title song from the (then) new musical "Hair." In June 1970, with the gunfire of Kent State still ringing in my ears, I left Hartigan School, Chicago, and the teaching profession far behind, but over the years I've found myself wondering what had become of Dave and the others with whom I worked in those days. Rest in peace, old comrade -- you did more good for those kids than I could possibly have hoped to achieve.

Dear Dave -
We will miss you at Joel & Libby's and other Piotrowski/Johnson get togethers. It was always a pleasure celebrating with you. May you rest in peace and celebrate now with the Lord.

Dear Dale, Craig, Lib & Family -
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Hope you can find some comfort in knowing your family and friends are here for you. God bless all.
Bernie

OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE ENTIRE
JOHNSON FAMILY
WE WILL KEEP DAVID IN OUR THOUGHTS AND
PRAYERS.
SINCERELY
RICH AND KATHRYN BLAZYK

Dave: I will always remember your laughter, your creativity and your willingness to help me as I entered the teaching field. You were not only a mentor to me, but a friend as well. Working with you at Hartigan brought a lot of fond memories and joy! I am so glad I shared 11 years of teaching with you because you made me a better educator and more compassionate person. Your zest for life was contagious and I will never forget you! May you rest in peace knowing how much you were loved. Thank you for being in my life. Cynthia Wolski

I remember David so well from my years at North Park. It was very frustrating that not only was he smarter, he was funnier than me!! My sincere condolences. I know he was loved and will be missed by many.

Sandra Anderson

I am so very grateful that I was able to get back in touch with David this past year. He was my best young childhood friend. I think about him so very often and he will be dearly missed. I will save his emails where he so fondly spoke about our childhood times, of which we had many. God bless his soul and his family. Penny Christoffersen Williams (Omaha, NE)

David:

You will always be remembered, missed, and loved by your classmates at Washington ES. May you rest in peace young man.