BREAKING: Samuel Bennett Johnson, II, has passed away at the age of 82 due to complications from Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy. The beloved resident of Capitola, CA, left behind a legacy of kindness and joy that touched countless lives.
Johnson’s family confirmed the news earlier today, expressing profound sadness at the loss of a man whose optimism was infectious. Known for his signature response of “Never better!” to the simplest of inquiries, Johnson embodied a spirit that inspired those around him.
Born in 1942 on Coronado Island, San Diego, Johnson was a self-proclaimed “beach bum” who thrived in the ocean’s embrace. His early life was filled with adventures in spearfishing, body surfing, and sailing at iconic locations like La Jolla Shores and Windansea Beach. After relocating to Wisconsin in 1960, he attended UW Madison as an Engineering student, where he met his future wife, Mary Ann Schanen, in 1967. The couple was married and raised their three children in Wauwatosa, WI.
Despite his Midwestern roots, Johnson’s heart remained in California. In 1981, he moved his family to Pleasanton, CA to work at Sandia National Laboratories until his retirement at 62. Following retirement, he and Mary Ann returned to the beach, creating cherished memories with their children and grandchildren at their home above New Brighton Beach.
Johnson’s passion for life extended into his retirement. He was an active member of the Santa Cruz Rowing Club, forming deep bonds with fellow rowers. Even when health challenges prevented him from rowing, Johnson dedicated his time to teaching others, sharing his engineering expertise in boat rigging and repairs.
His family, including his wife Mary Ann, three children, and seven grandchildren, remember him as a creative spirit who loved tinkering in his garage, where he could often be found indulging in his passions for fixing things, jazz music, and enjoying a cold beer.
The family expressed heartfelt gratitude to Santa Cruz Hospice for their compassionate care during Johnson’s final days. They invite those wishing to honor Johnson’s memory to consider making a donation to hospice services in his name.
As the community mourns the loss of a remarkable individual, Samuel Bennett Johnson, II, will be remembered for his unwavering positivity and the love he shared with family and friends. His spirit will continue to resonate with all who knew him.
For those wishing to express their condolences, additional details on memorial services will be shared by the family in the coming days.
