Gregory L. Johnson

Gregory L. Johnson, age 26, of Dover, died unexpectedly Monday morning, August 13, 2012, in his home.

Born at Dennison, December 1, 1985, he is the youngest son of George and Robin Russell Johnson, Jr.

Best known as Greg to his family and friends, he was a 2004 graduate of New Philadelphia High School, and was instrumental in the planning of and advocacy for the construction of the New Philadelphia Skate Park.

Greg continued his education at the Tuscarawas Campus of Kent State University, earning his associate’s degree there, and earned additional certification as an audio engineer in Columbus.

He worked regularly on the stage crew for the Performing Arts Center at New Philadelphia and the Blossom Center for the Arts in Cuyahoga Falls.

In addition to his skill as a skateboarder, Greg was also a talented musician, and had earned the admiration of many for his playing of his acoustic guitar.

Greg will be long remembered by his family as a talented, smart, friendly person, who made them proud as a well mannered gentleman.

Survivors, in addition to his parents who reside at Dover, include his brother, Georgie Johnson III, also of Dover, and his maternal grandmother, Joyce Russell of New Philadelphia.

Many aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends complete his family.

Greg is preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Robert Russell, and his paternal grandparents, George V. Johnson, Sr. and Patricia Ann Whitman, as well as a paternal uncle, Jamie Whitman.

The Johnson family will gather Sunday for a memorial service at 2PM in the Geib Funeral Center at Dover, where they will receive friends for one hour prior to the service. Greg will be laid to rest, alongside his grandpa Russell, following the memorial service in Sandyville Cemetery.

Those unable to attend are invited to share memories and condolences with the family and light a memorial candle on Greg’s permanent memorial by visiting the funeral home’s website.