BREAKING: Samuel Bennett Johnson, II, a cherished family man and community member, has passed away at the age of 83 due to complications from Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy. His family confirmed the news earlier today, expressing profound sadness over the loss of a kind-hearted soul who lived life to the fullest.
Born in 1942 on Coronado Island, CA, Sam was a true “beach bum” who embraced the ocean lifestyle. He dedicated his life to his family and friends, often responding to greetings with his signature phrase, “Never better!” His wife of 58 years, Mary Ann Johnson, alongside their three children and seven grandchildren, mourns his passing deeply.
Sam’s journey took him from the sunny beaches of California to the heart of the Midwest. After relocating to Wisconsin in 1960, he attended UW Madison as an engineering student, where he met Mary Ann. The couple wed in 1967 and raised their family in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, before returning to California in 1981 when Sam accepted a position with Sandia National Laboratories.
Retiring at the age of 62, Sam and Mary Ann settled in Capitola, CA, above New Brighton Beach, where they cherished family time, especially camping and beach outings with their grandchildren. Sam’s passion for a healthy lifestyle included active participation in the Santa Cruz Rowing Club, where he not only rowed but also taught others how to rig and repair their boats.
“Sam was a born engineer, always tinkering and putting things together in his garage workshop,” his family shared. “His spirit of curiosity and love for life touched everyone around him.”
Sam’s life was rich with experiences—from spearfishing and body surfing to golfing and traveling. He was known for his love of jazz, craft beer, and fixing things, often spending afternoons in his garage surrounded by these passions.
In a heartfelt statement, the family expressed their gratitude for the compassionate care provided by Santa Cruz Hospice during Sam’s final days. They encourage those wishing to honor his memory to consider making a donation to the hospice in lieu of flowers.
As friends and family gather to celebrate his life, Sam’s legacy will undoubtedly live on in the countless lives he touched. His warm spirit and zest for life will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
The family will share further details on memorial services shortly, inviting those who loved Sam to join in remembrance.
