John R. Johansson

LEOMINSTER – John R. “Jack” Johansson, 90, of Leominster, died peacefully Saturday, May 13, 2023 in Gardner Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, after a period of declining health.

He was born in Leominster on September 12, 1932, the son of the late Sigfrid and Judith H. (Ekstrom) Johansson, and was a resident of Leominster for most of his life.  Jack graduated from Leominster High school in 1950, and attended Wentworth Institute of Technology. 

Jack loved flying and realized his childhood dream becoming an aviation pilot. He was a Captain for US Airways for 25 years until his retirement.  He attended Emmanuel Lutheran Church and was a member of Wilder Lodge of Masons.  Jack loved ballroom and folk dancing.  He regularly attended the folk dances at the Finnish Center at Siama Park and Finnish Heritage Society Sovittaja.  During the Korean War, Jack proudly served his country as a member of United States Coast Guard.  He was very proud of his Swedish heritage and enjoyed learning and speaking the Swedish language. He regularly attended the pannukakku breakfasts at the Knights and Ladies of Kaleva and Siama Park.  Jack's hobbies included his interest in the stock market, tinkering around the house and fixing household items, and gardening.  He also loved music and enjoyed singing in the church choir. 

He leaves his wife Patricia (Kelley) Johansson; two children John R. Johansson Jr and his wife Joanne of Wilmington and Christine Caruso and her husband Dave of Ashburnham; a brother Ronald Johansson of Leominster; five grandchildren, Christin, Casey, David, Sarah and Rachel, he was predeceased by his granddaughter Cheyanne; five great grandchildren, Dave, Carter, Dahlia, Ellianna and Aurora as well as nieces and nephews.  A brother, Carl S. Johansson, preceded him in death.

Jack was a kind and generous man who enjoyed helping others.  He was well liked and will be missed by those who knew him.

Funeral services and burial will be private and at the convenience of the family. 

Memorial donations may be made to Shriners Hospital, 51 Blossom Street, Boston, MA  02114.

To leave an online condolence, please visit www.stone-ladeau.com

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, Melissa McQuaid and Douglas M. Stone, directors