Obituary of Kenneth A. Johnson

Kenneth A. Johnson, 72, of Lawrence Township, NJ, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2025, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia.

Born and raised in Lawrence Township, Ken dedicated his life to family, community, and service. He worked as the manager of Eastgate Apartments in Ewing, NJ, for 28 years before transitioning to a fulfilling career with Lawrence Township Public Works where he remained until his retirement.

Ken’s true passion, however, was firefighting. At the age of 16, he joined the Slackwood Volunteer Fire Company, where he quickly distinguished himself through his commitment, bravery, and ability to build and fix things, which earned him the nicknames “Tools” and “Ken-do”. Over his decades of service, Ken was repeatedly recognized as a top responder and served in multiple ranks, including Chief.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Eleanor (Gutbrod) Johnson, and his brothers, Powell (“Pete”) and Edward.

Ken is survived by his devoted wife of 49 years, Patricia (Hilty) Johnson; his two daughters, Christine and her husband Glenn Holcombe and Jennifer and her husband Kenneth Roth; and his five beloved grandchildren, Aidan, Grayson, Lindsey, Kelsey, and Mackenzie. He is also survived by his twin brother, Richard and his wife Pat Johnson and his younger brother, Robert and his wife Ann Marie Johnson, as well as many brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ken will be remembered for his quick wit, infectious laugh, and an ability to turn even the simplest moments into something memorable. He had a deep love for family and enjoyed vacations at the beach, where he could often be found with a fishing pole in one hand and a cold beer in the other. Whether it was swapping stories with friends or cracking jokes, Ken had a way of bringing joy and laughter wherever he went.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Poulson & Van Hise Funeral Directors located at 650 Lawrence Road Lawrenceville, NJ 08648.

Burial will take place at Fountain Lawn Memorial Park on Eggerts Crossing Road in Ewing, NJ. 

The visitation for Ken will be held on Friday, January 24, 2025 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM and again on Saturday, January 25, 2025 from 9:00 – 10:00 AM at Poulson & Van Hise Funeral Directors located at 650 Lawrence Road Lawrenceville, NJ 08648.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Ken’s memory to the NJ Fireman’s Home, 565 Lathrop Ave., Boonton, NJ 07005.