Memories of Kenneth "Ken" Orville Johnson | Ever Loved

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In memory of

Kenneth "Ken" Orville Johnson

Ashburn, VA, USA

November 17, 1930 - January 27, 2021

Nov 17, 1930 - Jan 27, 2021

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Jim Morrissey

What a great memorial for such a special man. My father worked @ Donnelley for his entire career and spoke so highly of Kenny Johnson- He was one of the Riverdale men. My mother as well, always commenting how welcoming and kind he was-
Great to see all the photos , god bless to all.

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Sarah Banks

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Lyudmila Gribach

Comments:

Sarah Banks

Dear Papa! Hope you are doing well and happy. This website is a little tricky in figuring out the best ... Read more Dear Papa! Hope you are doing well and happy. This website is a little tricky in figuring out the best way to write you. I ... Read more Dear Papa! Hope you are doing well and happy. This... Read more

Lyudmila Gribach

Ken always had a great smile and a fantastic sense of humour. He was very kind and caring.
I will always remember our first Christmas gathering in your Great Falls home. The Christmas village and tree that Ken decorated with love was simply amazing. I have not seen anything like that in my life. I enjoyed our conversations about life and family. Ken's friendship with my Dad was uniquely amazing. They both had so much kindness and respect to each other. I am missing dear Ken so much.

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Raised by 11 people

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Stas Schaller

1997, Great Falls, VA, USA

One more Vladimir and Ken photo we got scanned. This was our first year in America

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Shonnie Johnson

Comments:

Shonnie Johnson

And you, Stas, were probably only about 4 years old at the time. And you, Stas, were probably only about 4 years old at the time. And you, Stas, were probably only about 4 years old... Read more

Shonnie Johnson

Larry, Ken's brother's son, has been a big part of our family as he was growing up. But, only 4 when he... Read more Larry, Ken's brother's son, has been a big part of our family as he was growing up. But, only 4 when he attended our wedding... Read more Larry, Ken's brother's son, has been a big part of... Read more

Larry Johnson

2013, Estes Park, CO, USA

As Ken's nephew, I have been both honored and blessed to be referred to as the 4th kid/3rd Son.

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Jamie Scalia

Shonnie Johnson

Shonnie Johnson

1948

When I met Ken on a Blind Date in 1948, his kindness was offered to me...and to the couple we were with who had fixed us up. During that very special evening in a favorite Ice Cream Parlor in our neighborhood, his kindness was immediately present. And also, his keen, fun sense of humor and that huge smile. A very welcomed and impressive combination for a beginning, for sure. And it clearly was Ken who put me, Barb and Dick at ease, and very comfortable. That isn't always true relative to Blind Dates. But it was the beginning of a great Love Story that we've shared for 72 years, including both of us turning 90...and celebrating our 70th Anniversary this year. The truly beautiful comments offered relative to his passing are and were so sincere! But that is easy to understand as he really loved people...and life! I couldn't have been more blessed to have been his wife and life-time partner for SO long. Lucky me!!

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Shonnie Johnson

Jamie Scalia

Jamie Scalia

Reston, VA, USA

❤️

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Shonnie Johnson

Comments:

Shonnie Johnson

He sure looks like he was in a happy place...and he was! Our whole family was at the Hyatt Hotel in Reston... Read more He sure looks like he was in a happy place...and he was! Our whole family was at the Hyatt Hotel in Reston over the Thanksgiving... Read more He sure looks like he was in a happy place...and he... Read more

Jamie Scalia

He looks so content... just soaking it all in. Nana, you look at him so lovingly in this photo. I would say... Read more He looks so content... just soaking it all in. Nana, you look at him so lovingly in this photo. I would say that I can’t believe... Read more He looks so content... just soaking it all in. Nana,... Read more

Larry Johnson

Ashby Ponds, Ashburn, VA, USA

4 generations at Ken's 89th Birthday,Ken & Shonnie, Son in law Randy with great granddaughter Madelyn and granddaughter Rachel

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Shonnie Johnson

Comments:

Shonnie Johnson

The Game Room at Ashby Ponds was always a wonderful place to gather for special occasions. And because Ken... Read more The Game Room at Ashby Ponds was always a wonderful place to gather for special occasions. And because Ken was such a special... Read more The Game Room at Ashby Ponds was always a wonderful... Read more

Shonnie Johnson

continued... person in so many ways, it was the perfect place to celebrate his turning 89 that evening. continued... person in so many ways, it was the perfect place to celebrate his turning 89 that evening. continued... person in so many ways, it was the perfect... Read more

Nancy Johnson

I met Ken 50+ years ago when I married his nephew, Larry. Ken has been a role model for so many over the years, he was caring, intelligent, and always willing to be a helping hand or just a good listener. He married the love of his life and his best cheerleader Shonnie and together they built a legacy unmatched by any couple I know. His sincere, yet fun loving attitude will be missed by all who have ever come in contact with him. The world has lost a super star, but what an honor it has been to have known him!

Nancy Johnson

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Jamie Scalia

Comments:

Shonnie Johnson

But Nancy, although he loved you from the start all those years ago, your making him so many Snickerdoodles,... Read more But Nancy, although he loved you from the start all those years ago, your making him so many Snickerdoodles, mostly to cheer... Read more But Nancy, although he loved you from the start all... Read more

Tamara Gribach

My Dear Shonnie and Jill,
I offer my deepest condolences for your loss. I've shared below a photograph of two very close friends. These photographs always stood on Vladimir's table within easy reach. We cherished Ken's Sunday visits where the laughter and companionship was easy. Something that impressed me was Ken's punctuality. On those Sunday visits I would sometimes accompany Vladimir outside to meet Ken in our parking lot. He was always there at 10 o'clock sharp. Once, and only once, we thought he was running late. We rushed inside, called, and received Ken's answer, "Well we agreed to meet tomorrow!" It was wonderful of him to help us read his book, The Other One in Other Times. It would have been very difficult without his assistance. We loved getting to know you and Ken better, becoming closer, and we learned a lot about America too. Ken in exchange loved hearing Vladimir's stories of travel and adventure from his time with the soviet merchant marines.
I miss Ken, and I feel the space he has left behind deeply. He was among the most wonderful people I have ever had to the pleasure to meet and know. My prayers are with you, your family, and with Ken's soul in Heaven.

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Tamara Gribach

Ken and Vlamidir

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Shonnie Johnson

Stas Schaller

Ken's warmth and optimism remains an inspiration for me. I've yet to meet someone so unconditionally kind and wise. I lack the words to describe the hole left with Ken's passing, but I hope you and yours stay strong, healthy, and comforted with his wonderful memory.

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Comments:

Jill Banks

They are always good tears when reading how my Dad has impacted so many lives in such beautiful ways. How... Read more They are always good tears when reading how my Dad has impacted so many lives in such beautiful ways. How blessed we all are he... Read more They are always good tears when reading how my Dad ... Read more

Connie Hall

We were in The Islands for a RH Donnelley weekend celebration for Outstanding Sales Team of the year. That year it was Bryant Hall's Syracuse Team. Ken and Shonnie were always in attendance to celebrate and honor winners whoever they were. and for whatever reason. Ken and I were determined to outdo each other at finding the biggest beach shell to take back home. We had a spot where each of us would display the latest "Winner". Many folks were checking them daily and teasing one of us that ours was too small. We all had such fun for those few days checking the Shells. The final day, the folks voted for the winning largest shell. We had outdone ourselves for sure, because the shells were impossible for the judges to declare one was the biggest. Ken was always ready to do fun things, and this occasion was definitely FUN. When we moved to CT, I remember him asking me if I still had my shell. I did! I brought it to FL when we moved here and put it in our front yard. Happy memory. Connie Hall

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Shonnie Johnson

Sarah Banks

Great Falls, VA, USA

The Van

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Shonnie Johnson

Comments:

Sarah Banks

And Sam :) And Sam :) And Sam :)

Shonnie Johnson

And now Sam is married with two darling little girls...Emma & Madelyn And now Sam is married with two darling little girls...Emma & Madelyn And now Sam is married with two darling little girls...Emma... Read more

Larry Johnson

1989, Grapevine, TX, USA

Phil, me Ken and Gram Bessie @ Kristas Wedding Brunch

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Sarah Banks

Jamie Scalia

Shonnie Johnson

Comments:

Larry Johnson

Came across this in some photos in my office today. Came across this in some photos in my office today. Came across this in some photos in my office today.... Read more

Shonnie Johnson

And do you remember what you said to your friend who was at your table whe he asked you who that was that... Read more And do you remember what you said to your friend who was at your table whe he asked you who that was that had just entered the... Read more And do you remember what you said to your friend who... Read more

Larry Johnson

Wracked the brain but it isn't coming back! What did I say :) Wracked the brain but it isn't coming back! What did I say :) Wracked the brain but it isn't coming back! What did... Read more

Sarah Banks

Dear Papa,

Hope you are happy, feeling terrific and reconnecting with your many loved ones, friends, and new/old admirers! I miss and love you so much! I think about you every day, every moment really, especially when I am deciding or figuring out how to approach a situation in a way you would approve of, so I am glad to have you looking over me and all of us!

I love visiting your page, it helps me cope and remember all the great memories and how lucky I am to have you as a Papa! This page was made for you because you will truly be ever loved! It is amazing to me the legacy and impact you have made on so many people in your lifetime, it is so great! You should be proud; I know I am! 😊

I was so excited to get an e-mail notification today asking to share what we have learned from you and if it has a lasting impact, the last part made me laugh, so thank you for your cherished and remarkable influence you have made on me and everyone else in your life! What haven’t a learned from you? You have taught me so much; I am so grateful for everything! I have really been missing being able to talk to you and ask for advice, but I hope you still hear me, I am sure you are very popular and there are a lot of people in need of your guidance!

I was going to type up a couple letters I have from you to post and share but decided to write you a new note! I am not sure if you remember this, but I did write my college admissions essay about you and how you taught me that “if life gives you lemons, to make lemonade (or Country Time lemonade with a very limited quantity of water and lots of sugar to sell our overly sweet product to neighbors as they drive into Seneca Hunt, in Great Falls, VA).”

I am not sure where to begin, you are sure an incredible person, it is absolutely unreal! Everyone always told me my expectations where high, but I liked that, because you are the best and inspire me and others to be better.

I think the best life lesson that you taught me was how to love, what true love looks like and how it feels. Most people have never witnessed or been so lucky to have be around a love like you and Nana shared. I have a memory and I’m sorry I don’t remember the anniversary or occasion, but Nana sang to you at a restaurant in a private room in Hilton Head, SC. We had all finished dinner and I just remember Nana coming out with a microphone and started singing the song “Through The Years” by Kenny Rodgers, Christina Loulakis and I were balling our eyes out, but we/I loved it. It was so sweet, beautiful, and fitting for the love you both have for each other. I listen to the song all the time, it still brings me to tears, but also a lot of happiness and joy for being so blessed. You have shown so many people what is possible, what real love looks like and it’s the most wonderful thing in the world! Thank you for building such stable, loving and extremely well-planted garden for our family to grow and learn from!

I’m sorry for the short message today, I have so much more to share with you and others, but I have to stop for now. I’ll continue to write; I love you Papa!

Love,
Sarah

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Shonnie Johnson

Jamie Scalia

Sarah Banks

Comments:

Shonnie Johnson

Sarah, That was our 50th Anniversary, and yes, it was in an upstairs restaurant in Hilton Head. AND we... Read more Sarah, That was our 50th Anniversary, and yes, it was in an upstairs restaurant in Hilton Head. AND we were sharing the evening... Read more Sarah, That was our 50th Anniversary, and yes, it ... Read more

Jamie Scalia

2018

Papa tickling a couple “great-grands” at a Thanksgiving gathering in Reston. We had the whole family there, it was a VERY special visit!

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Sarah Banks

Comments:

Jill Banks

Jamie, I love this beautiful memory and photo. Papa/Dad was a “professional” tickler! Jamie, I love this beautiful memory and photo. Papa/Dad was a “professional” tickler! Jamie, I love this beautiful memory and photo. Papa/Dad... Read more

Barb Kline-Schoder

Ken (always Mr. Johnson to me!) was my second dad while I was growing up. The memories that come back most quickly and clearly to me all involve laughter: watching Jill get tossed in the shower (fully dressed) by Ken and Phil; finding the telephone call on hold in the ice box (back in the days of corded phones); singing loudly, lustily and tunelessly while taking a sleigh ride in Central Park; and roaring with laughter over dinner with friends on a weekend away in the Poconos. On that same Poconos trip, I remember someone saying something amusing as Ken walked past and he told the gentleman that he was actually pretty funny and maybe should be in his own comedy show. Turned out it was Henny Youngman, and he was starring in a comedy show at that same hotel later that evening!!

As a frequent flyer in the overnight guest department at the Johnson’s house, I also have a really clear image of how Ken and Shonnie would snuggle up on the couch together at the end of the day—often dozing off during Johnny Carson on the Tonight Show. Though I was young, I was astute enough to recognize the comfort, love and strength of a really amazing marriage, and also that the marriage included two extraordinary people. Ken was wonderful and the world was a better place when he was a part of it. From the testimonies here it seems to underscore the fact that he loved well—and in return was well loved. My deepest sympathy to the whole family.

Love,
Barb

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Jamie Scalia

Sarah Banks

Comments:

Jill Banks

Barb, that was truly beautiful. It does bug me that everyone’s (that should be in all caps) memories are ... Read more Barb, that was truly beautiful. It does bug me that everyone’s (that should be in all caps) memories are so much sharper than ... Read more Barb, that was truly beautiful. It does bug me that... Read more

Scott Johnson

By the time you two were friends, I was in college, so I only recall a few observations of two great buddies... Read more By the time you two were friends, I was in college, so I only recall a few observations of two great buddies - something I know... Read more By the time you two were friends, I was in college,... Read more

Patrick Marshall

Ken was the best leader I ever worked for. He was kind, generous, and always available to help others. I will always remember him for his encouragement and genuine care for those who aspired to lead. He was a legend. God bless you, Ken. You will be sorely missed, but never forgotten. Deep condolences to Shonnie and family.

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Patrick Marshall

Shonnie Johnson

Jamie Scalia

Sarah Banks

Comments:

Shonnie Johnson

Pat, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts about Ken. And he sure thought the world of you!!!!... Read more Pat, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts about Ken. And he sure thought the world of you!!!! Pat, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts... Read more

Connie Hall

Ken was President of Donnelley Directory in NY City when my husband, Bryant "Bear" Hall was a Manager in Syracuse, NY. We met Ken and Shonnie, and as most people, we were welcomed with sincerity, kindness, and friendship. Ken was innately friendly and open to anyone. He was an outstanding President, yet, no one ever felt anything but kindness, acceptness, and understanding. He was a friend to all, and all of us knew that was Ken's sincere true self. At one of the Award banquets, Ken spoke, and told everyone that He just heard Bryant had lost 2000 #. Bryant kept in shape by diets of all kinds, and always joked about it. so, of course, when he told Ken he added the pounds and he lost 2000#, Ken made good use and had the audience laughing and joking about it.

Years later Bryant was transferred to CT. Ken and Shonnie lived nearby, and a friendship developed that we cherished. Ken and Shonnie were such fun to be with that we could have spent much more time with them. I remember a dinner in their back yard and Ken showing us his beloved Gazebo. He had always loved the look from when he was a young boy, and when he had his own home, that was a definite addition to be enjoyed. Oh my, this has evoked so many fond memories that I could write a thesis... but, I won't.
We were blessed to have Ken and Shonnie in our lives and will never forget the fond memories of shared Donnelly vacations and celebrations. Most of all, the personal memories of the four of us together with such enjoyment, will always be in my heart.
We'll all miss you Ken. You left your mark in this world, and it couldn't have been better. with love, Connie Hall

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Sarah Banks

Jamie Scalia

Shonnie Johnson

Sarah Banks

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Shonnie Johnson

Jamie Scalia

Sarah Banks

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Jamie Scalia

Shonnie Johnson

Sarah Banks

2006, Stratford House, Stratford House Place, Reston, VA, USA

Nana and Papa’s condo. Thanks for instilling in us the value of family and going above and beyond to ensure we were close. A very welcomed visit by Sam, Michelle, Jamie and Drew. We took these photos for you and Nana despite our hesitation when we were younger, thank you for being so persistent and always having a video recorder or camera in your hand. So many lovely memories to look back on!

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Jamie Scalia

Shonnie Johnson

Sarah Banks

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Jamie Scalia

Shonnie Johnson

Sarah Banks

2013, Nordstrom, Tysons Corner Center, McLean, VA, USA

I miss you ❤️🦒. Thanks for being the best dinner date.

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Jamie Scalia

Comments:

Jill Banks

Love this photo of you, Sarah, and Papa. Special time together! Love this photo of you, Sarah, and Papa. Special time together! Love this photo of you, Sarah, and Papa. Special time... Read more

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Created with love by Jill Banks (Ken's daughter).

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