OWLS HEAD – Charles M. Johnson, 90, passed away Saturday, June 6, 2020 at the Sussman House in Rockport following a long illness.
Born September 4, 1929 in Plymouth MA to George and Lydia (Morris) Johnson. He was one of seven children, raised in Harwich MA, educated in local schools and was a graduate of Harwich High School class of 1947.
Following graduation, he enlisted into the United States Marine Corps on July 28, 1947. After completing Boot Camp at Paris Island, Charlie reported to the Boston Naval Ship Yard for guard duty. Following his duty there he transferred to Camp LeJeune serving with the 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, Weapons Company as a Machine Gunner.
A Korean War Veteran, Charlie participated in action and combat against the North Korean forces on several occasions, most notably during the Wonsan-Hungnam-Chosin Campaign, and the battle at Chosin Reservoir. It was in Korea that Charlie was twice wounded earning him the Purple Heart Medal. He carried a bullet from a North Korean combatant in his right hip for the remainder of his life.
Following his service and return home, Charlie attended Northeastern University in Boston. He would go on to work as a Mechanical Manager in the Pulp and Paper industry for Georgia Pacific and S.D. Warren in Skowhegan
Charlie was a life member of the Mid-Coast Marine Corps League, Chapter 637 and was Past Commandant for 2 years. He also was a 32nd degree Mason with the Orient Lodge in Thomaston.
He enjoyed the comradery and company of his morning breakfast group at the Brass Compass.
Predeceased by his parents, two brothers, and two sisters, he is survived by his sons, Gary Johnson and his wife Kathleen of Fairfield; and Gregory Johnson and his wife Dianne of Troy Montana; a brother William Johnson and his wife Gwendolyn of Talmadge; his sister Beverly Johnson of Harwich MA; and his 6 grandchildren, Jennifer, Lucas, Gary, Mia, Kyle, and Kimberly.
A service with Military Honors will be held at Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Civic Center Dr. and will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers donations in Charlie’s memory can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516 or online at woundedwarriorproject.org