Johnson, Alvin (Artie) George

 1954-2024

The family of Alvin (Artie) Johnson is saddened to announce his passing on August 20, 2024.

Artie succumbed to complications following a complex surgery in Kelowna B.C.

Artie will be missed by his three sisters, Darlene (Smith), Cathy (Ziegler), Beth (Johnson), and by his best friend George (Wilson).

Artie was born in Nelson B.C. on February 18, 1954.  He was predeceased by his wife, Marcia, and his mother and father (Mary and Ole Johnson of Kaslo, B.C.).

Artie graduated High School in Kaslo and attended the University of Victoria.  He worked on several construction sites in northern Alberta and in Calgary. He preferred life in Kaslo, where he worked at the T&H Sawmill, and later, for many years as an ‘edger’ at the Meadow Creek Cedar mill.  He was a member of the LIUNA (Laborers’ International Union of North America) local 1611.  Artie was also an accomplished cabinet builder.  His skill with wood is captured in his oak cabinets, hutches and wall units.

Artie loved music and fishing.  Artie brought much joy entertaining people over the years. He was a master accordionist.   He began entertaining at an early age with his father, Ole Johnson, at many community events.  As a teenager, he was part of a band known as “The Boys”, comprised of Brian Morton, Mark Rota, Jake Humphries and Les Jones).   He loved fishing in Kootenay Lake where Ole and Artie held the record for many years, of landing a Giant Gerrard Rainbow Trout.  He would often fish with his best friend George Wilson, whom he described as the brother he never had.  Artie was an avid crib player and played cards with his sisters right up to the time of his passing.

Artie was well liked for his quick wit, kind smile and gentle mannerisms.  His final resting place will be with his mother and father at Kaslo Cemetery.  A Celebration of Life will be held at the Kaslo Legion Hall on September 20, 1:00 p.m.