James Roger “Jim” Johnson, 84, of Jamestown, N.Y., passed away Monday morning, March 20, 2023, at his residence. He was born June 29, 1938, in Jamestown, New York, son of the late William F. and Bernice C. (Morgenstern) Johnson.
After his 1956 graduation from Jamestown High School, Jim enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was stationed in Green Cove Springs, Florida. As an electronic technician, he enjoyed his work replacing old antennae with the latest equipment on many ships. When his two-year enlistment was up, Jim remained in Florida working as a plasterer, before finally returning to live in Jamestown, New York.
In 1960, Jim started working at Anderson’s Screw Products. Though he started just by sweeping floors at the machinery plant, his hard work and dedication eventually led him up to plant superintendent. Initially he thought of it as “just a job” but he became fascinated by the intricacies of machining as well as diplomacy of staff management. His job also gave him the opportunity for international travel and annual trips to Chicago for the National Tool Show.
Jim’s hobby of roller skating– starting as a young boy at Midway Amusement Park– led him to the love of his life, Warren native, Barbara Ann Musante.
Jim met Barbara at the Russell Roller Rink in March 1964 and won her over with his sweetness, humor, and devotion. The two married in 1970 and went on to build a house, family, and a happy life together that lasted over 50 years.
Over the years, James and Barbara continued to roller skate, forming a skating community that stayed together long after their regular meeting place—Evan’s Skateland—closed down. Jim was the president of their skating club and continued to arrange Christmas parties and summer picnics.
Jim was very involved in his community, not only as a volunteer fire fighter for the Kiantone fire department, but also as a longtime member of the Kiantone zoning board of appeals, becoming chairman until he stepped down in 2019.
Jim enjoyed participating in weekly biking trips every summer, picnics, dinners, and parties. He loved gardening and carpentry. He was meticulous and very much a perfectionist, making sure everything was exactly the way he wanted it.
After Jim retired in 1999, he started BJ’s Concrete Products, a small lawn and statuary business that continues on with his children and grandchildren at the helm.
Jim will be remembered for his bluntness, his generosity, and his genuine smiles – unless you were asking him to smile for a photo.
Surviving are his beloved wife of 53 years, Barbara Johnson, his four children, Dawn (Steve) Carutis of Westfield, Dan Johnson of Randolph, Cynthia (David) Zuech of Gerry, Jennifer (John Booth) Johnson of Brooklyn, and six grandchildren: Jessica Johnson, Jamie Johnson, Zachary (Lainy Cofer) Zuech, McKenzie Zuech, Alyzza Zuech and Zoe Zuech.
Jim was preceded in death by his older brother, Philip W. Johnson, older sister, Barbara A. (Johnson) Meeker and his parents, William F. and Bernice C. (Morganstern) Johnson.
A private funeral service will be conducted at the convenience of the family. Interment will be in St. Joseph R.C. Cemetery, Warren, PA., E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com The Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., Warren, PA., has been entrusted with funeral arrangements.
I am so very sorry to see this I had the opportunity to meet Jim through Cindy and he was just such a wonderful man I know he will be missed by all the new him especially his wonderful family.
Mike and I are truly going to miss Uncle Jim. We always enjoyed our visits with him and Aunt Barbara and the welcome feelings of being with the family.
We are so sorry for your loss, Jim was an awesome person and supervisor. May the family take comfort in knowing that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time. Laurie and Dan Carlson
Beautiful tribute toba wonderful man. He will be missed.
God bless you uncle Jim! I know you’ll be in heaven with my mother and our Lord. May Aunt Barb and your whole family be blessed and comforted. We are here but a short time but in heaven for eternity.
Beautiful tribute to a wonderful man. He will be missed.
Barb
I and Toni are so sorry. Jim will be missed
Bob and I are both deeply saddened by Jim’s passing. Jim was the kindest, most gentle soft spoken, compassionate, generous, and loving gentleman that we have known in our lifetime. Jim will be missed immensely by all who knew him. May God be with you -his devoted family and friends. With our deepest sympathy, Bob and Marcia Brown
Barbara and Family…it is with great sadness that we read of Jim’s passing. So many great memories of Jim and you through our skating years. May you rest in our precious Lord ‘s comforting arms to give you peace and comfort during these difficult days.
Momma Barb so sorry for your loss. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. Only time will help you heal but he will never be forgotten. Remember all the good times and the times he made you smile and that will help you get through these tough times. All our love to you and your family. Melissa, Mark & Morgan Wilson
Sorry to hear of Mr. Johnson passing,he was a good man,he had great talent.