Philip E. Johnson, 90, a resident of The Caring Place in Franklin, formerly of Seneca, died early Monday morning, July 22, 2013 at UPMC Northwest in Seneca.
Born November 18, 1922 in Seneca, he was the son of the late Frank and Viola (Faeger) Johnson.
He was a graduate of Cranberry High School and then served in the U.S. Army during World War II in the Pacific Theater.
Phil was an active gardener, woodworker, and painter for many years at his home in Seneca. He was self-taught in carpentry, furniture building, bird carving, and oil painting. He was also an avid reader.
Mr. Johnson was employed for many years as an automobile mechanic at both the Weaver Chevrolet and Crivelli Chevrolet dealerships.
He was married in Oil City on August 10, 1946 to the former Theresa Burke.
Surviving is his wife of 66 years, Theresa, who resides at The Caring Place in Franklin; two sons, Robert Johnson and wife Kay of Eglon, West Virginia, and Steve Johnson and wife Patty of Erie; grandchildren include Philip, Anne Marie, Andrew, and Emily Johnson, all of Erie; and great-grandchildren Aivree, Kendyll, and Rowynn Johnson, all of Erie.
He is also survived by a sister, Jean Tantillo of Weymouth, Mass.; and several devoted nieces, nephews, and their families.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Frank Johnson.
Friends and family are invited to attend a service to celebrate Phil’s life, which will be held Friday (July 26th) at 3:30 p.m. in the chapel of The Caring Place, 103 N. 13th Street in Franklin. The Rev. Linda Deeter, chaplain at The Caring Place, will officiate.
The family will then receive friends Friday evening (July 26th) from 7-9 p.m. in the Hile-Best Funeral Home, Inc., 2781 Rte. 257 in Seneca, Cranberry Township.
Phil’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the dedicated staff at The Caring Place for their concern and care for both Theresa and Phil.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Caring Place or to the Salvation Army.
Condolences may be expressed online to the Johnson family by visiting www.hilebest.com