BREAKING: Samuel Bennett Johnson, II, a cherished family man and respected engineer, has passed away at the age of 82 in Capitola, CA, due to complications from Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy. This news comes as a profound loss to his family and friends, with many remembering him as a kind and gentle soul whose optimism was infectious.
Johnson, who lived a life full of adventure and love, often responded to inquiries about his well-being with a vibrant “Never better!” His wife of 58 years, Mary Ann Johnson, along with their three children and seven grandchildren, mourn his passing while celebrating his remarkable legacy.
Born in 1942 on Coronado Island, San Diego, Sam was a self-proclaimed “beach bum,” immersing himself in activities like spearfishing and sailing. In 1960, he moved to Wisconsin with his family, where he attended UW Madison, studying engineering. It was there that he met Mary Ann Schanen, the love of his life, and they married in 1967. The couple raised their family in Wauwatosa, WI, before returning to California in 1981 for Sam’s job with Sandia National Laboratories.
After a distinguished career spanning 23 years, Sam retired at the age of 62 and embraced the next chapter of life in Capitola, CA. There, he and Mary Ann relished time spent at their home above New Brighton Beach, creating lasting memories with family, especially during beach camping trips with their grandchildren.
Sam’s passion for life extended to rowing, where he and Mary Ann became proud members of the Santa Cruz Rowing Club. Even after he could no longer row, he shared his expertise by teaching others about boat maintenance and repair. Known for his engineering skills, Sam enjoyed “puttering” in his garage workshop, where he indulged in his love for fixing things, jazz music, and craft beer.
The family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to Santa Cruz Hospice for their compassionate care during Sam’s final days. Although he is no longer physically present, his spirit will forever remain alive in the hearts of those who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorial donations to Hospice in Sam’s memory, ensuring his legacy of kindness and love continues to impact others.
As tributes pour in from friends and family, Sam’s unwavering optimism and zest for life serve as a reminder to cherish each day as he did.
