1921 – 2015

LEWISTON — Reginald “Reggie” Francis Johnson, 93, of Auburn, died peacefully on Sunday, Jan. 18, at Russell Park Rehabilitation and Living Center, after a brief illness.

A lifetime resident of Auburn, he was educated in the Auburn school system and graduated from Edward Little High School.

Reggie proudly served his country in the U.S. Army Air Corps, 15th Air Force, 47th Bomb Wing, 449th Bomber Group (heavy) during World War II. He was trained as a flight engineer/gunner on the B-24 bomber. Based at Grottaglie Airfield in Taranto, Italy, his crew flew bombing missions supporting the war efforts during the European campaign. Highly respected by his crew for his skill, ingenuity and selfless actions, he saved the aircraft and crew on more than one occasion.

Upon his discharge from the military in 1945, Reggie returned to Auburn where Fernwood Dairy, operated by his future father-in-law, George W. Mottram, employed him as a route salesman. There, he met and married the former Martha Mottram. They were married on Jan. 29, 1946, and celebrated 59 years of marriage.

In the mid-1960s, they closed the dairy business and opened Fernwood Excavating on Turner Road in Auburn. Reggie was a very proficient heavy equipment operator, well-known and respected in the industry. He continued in this business until his retirement.

He was a member of the 449th Bomb Group Association, the American Legion and St. Michael’s Episcopal Church. Reggie was very devoted to his family. His pastime activities included gardening and woodworking.

He is survived by his son, Michael (AnneMarie) Johnson, of Tucson, Ariz.; two grandsons, Jeffrey (Kasey) Johnson of Dallas, Texas, and Thomas (Stacy) Johnson of Stockton, Calif.; five great-grandchildren; his devoted sisters-in-law, Beryl Mottram of Auburn and Geneva (Adrien) Beauregard of Lewiston; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Reggie was predeceased by his parents, John and Grace Johnson of Auburn; his devoted and beloved wife, Martha M. Johnson; his brother, Blaine (Barbara) Johnson, of Massapequa Park, N.Y.; and his brother, Roger (Loretta) Johnson, of South Portland.

The family wishes to acknowledge and thank all of the staff at Russell Park for their dedication to Reggie’s care.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories of Reggie through his guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.