Harry Gustav Johnson

Portsmouth, RI - Harry G. Johnson, 79, of Portsmouth, RI, died Tuesday, July 17, 2012 at Newport Hospital, Newport, RI. He was the husband of Lucy (Mastrorilli) Johnson. Mr. Johnson served in the Army during the Korean War, then joined the Air Force and served 30 years with the 152nd Tactical Control Group of the NY Air National Guard, retiring as Lt. Col. He was a systems engineer and programmer for IBM, Federal Systems Division for 33 years. After his retirement, he volunteered for the Town of Portsmouth for a number of years as Communications Officer and Assistant Director of Civil Defense (FEMA) in the capacity of the town's Emergency Manager.He held office as President of the RI Chapter of the AFCEA, was a member of the V.F.W., and many other military organizations.Harry was a loving husband and a wonderful father and grandfather. Besides his wife of 55 years, he is survived by his son and daughter-in-law Mark and Joyce Johnson of Concord, NH, his daughter Sherri Johnson, and his grandchildren Nicholas and Hollie Johnson, all of Portsmouth, RI. He was also a great animal lover. Harry wanted to let everyone know that he "had a wonderful life". At his request, there will be no services.In lieu of flowers, donation in his memory may be made to the Robert Potter League for Animals, PO Box 412, Newport, RI 02842, to the American Red Cross or to Newport Hospital.