Robert Johnson

It is with profound sorrow that we share the news of Robert “Bob” Gunnard Johnson’s passing on Jan. 14, 2025, at the age of 89. A lifelong resident of Jamestown, NY, Bob embodied resilience and industriousness, traits inherited from his Swedish parents and uncles who arrived in America through Ellis Island and immigrated to Jamestown; despite a 20-year battle with prostate cancer, Bob lived a full and inspiring life.

Born to Gunnard and Mae Johnson (nee Johnnson), Bob’s family lineage traces back to 1392 in Sweden. Following in his father’s entrepreneurial footsteps, Bob and his brother Milton played a pivotal role in the family business, Gunnard Johnson & Sons. As a construction company, they built over 350 homes in Jamestown from the 1960s to the late 1990s, demonstrating the family’s dedication to the growth and development of their close-knit community.

A proud alumnus of Jamestown High School, Bob also served in the army reserves for four years. After marrying Virginia D Close (Adams) in a double wedding ceremony alongside Donna and Ed Johnson in the late 1950s and had three children. His devotion to his children was showcased by his strong sense of family devotion, and he skillfully raised his two eldest children at the young age of 22, on his own, with the help of Mrs. Brooks and the unwavering support of his parents and siblings. Bob later remarried in the 1980s, building a beautiful, blended family with his wife of 40 years, Mary Jo Johnson.

Beyond his professional achievements and dedication to family, Bob’s passion for golf and the outdoors was undeniable. Alongside his partner Carl Pillittieri, he secured four Italian American golf tournament victories in 1972, 1974, 1993, and 1996, setting an unprecedented record. Although a fierce competitor on the course with a 7 handicap, Bob remained a humble and kind friend who always prioritized relationships off the green. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing and spending time at their summer cottage on Warner Bay.

Bob’s life serves as a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on a community. He is survived by his wife, Mary Jo Johnson, and his five children Scott Johnson (Indiana), Shelley Johnson (California), Shawn Johnson (North Carolina) , Michael Johnson (Justina) of Jamestown, and Gabriel Johnson (Colorado). His legacy continues through his five grandchildren Michelle (Joseph) Johnson, Robert (Whitley) Johnson, Declan Johnson, Mira Johnson, and Isla Johnson; and his five great-grandchildren in Indiana Aubrey Johnson, Stella Johnson, Beckett Johnson, Lukas Johnson, and Kyloh Johnson.

In keeping with Bob’s altruistic nature, he generously donated his body to the University of Buffalo medical school for research purposes. A memorial service will be held later this year to commemorate his extraordinary life. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider donating to the American Institute for Cancer Research (https://www.cancerresearch.org/) in memory of Robert “Bob” Gunnard Johnson, whose spirit will live on in the hearts of all those he touched.