Robert Lasky Johnson

Robert Lasky Johnson, 89, of Port Ewen died Monday, August 23, 2010 at Kingston Hospital. He was born September 28, 1920 in Port Ewen to the late Warren M. and Anna (Roosa) Johnson. He was a descendant of the Foertner and Roosa families of Hurley.

He was a graduate of Kingston High School, Class of 1938, he enlisted in the U. S. Army in 1940 and was honorably discharged in 1941, he was then employed by Esso as a Merchant Seaman until 1945, making oil shipments to Europe, South America, the Caribbean and the South Pacific.
After WW II he was employed by Cargo Carriers and then with Morania Towing, Inc. NYC, as a Hudson River Pilot, which included the Great Lakes and the North East Coast. He retired in 1985.
He was a very active member of the Town of Esopus American Legion Post #1298, the Klyne Esopus Historical Society, volunteered at Peoples Place for over 25 years and was a member of Town of Esopus Senior Citizens. He enjoyed playing cards and was an excellent chess player.

He was the loving and devoted husband of Gloria Cole Johnson, they wed on January 6, 1945 and celebrated 65 years of marriage, loving father of twin daughters Pamela and her husband Dennis Emken of St. George, UT and Candace and her husband Dr. Joseph Erena of Kingston, NY. Proud grandfather of Daniela and her husband John Esposito of New Milford, CT, and their three daughters, Gabriela, Alexa and Giovanna Esposito. Six nephews also survive. He was predeceased by his brothers Warren, Francis and Arthur Johnson.

Robert was a loving man with strong principles and convictions. He was loved dearly by his family and will be remembered by his many friends for his kindness and generosity. His memory will forever remain in our hearts.

Entrusted to the care of the Keyser Funeral Service, Inc., 216 Broadway, Port Ewen. Friends may call on Thursday from 3 - 7 pm. The service will be held on Friday at 11:00 a.m. at Keyser's, the Rev. Dr. David M. Brechter, officiating.

Burial in Hurley Cemetery, Hurley with military honors provided by Joyce Schirick Post # 1386 VFW.

The family suggests in lieu of flowers memorial contributions be made to People's Place, 773 Broadway, Kingston, NY or Klyne Esopus Historical Society, P.O. Box 180, Ulster Park, NY 12487 or Town Of Esopus Volunteer Ambulance Squad, P.O. Box 910, Port Ewen, NY 12466.