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Bob Johnson, March 7, 1935 – January 3, 2026
If you’re fortunate, you’ll meet someone special who will add so many positive things to your life. My special someone was Bob Johnson.
We met more than 20 years ago when we, along with thousands of residents, advocated to “save” Wright-Locke Farm from development. That was the beginning of our friendship, and it grew stronger over the years.
Bob married Carolyn, the love of his life, in 1959. His two daughters, his son, and grandchildren adored him.
There wasn’t a sport that Bob didn’t enjoy. Hockey, football, skiing, tennis, sailing, surfing … name it. Bob was a fan. He coached youth sports teams in Winchester and was one of the high school’s sports teams biggest fans rarely missing a game.
One thing that people may not know is Bob was a member of Town Meeting from 1981 to 2024. That must set a record! Bob very rarely missed a meeting and was highly respected. When Bob spoke at Town Meeting, people listened.
Bob rarely missed a meeting of the Wright-Locke Farm Conservancy, too. He took his role seriously. He was also serious about keeping the grounds neat and tidy. There was nothing like seeding, watering, and mowing the grass, plus plowing snow to keep him happy. Bob would do anything he could for the farm.
He was so proud of his major achievement, which was cleaning up the Ice House and transforming it into a museum to display historical ice harvesting tools. It became a popular venue for farm visitors and the educational program for children. Bob never expected to be thanked. He did what Bob did.
Even though I knew my special friend for so many years, it wasn’t long enough. Bob wasn’t only a friend. He was my true, blue Buddy. I’ll always remember and miss my Buddy.
Winchester resident Charlene Band is a Town Meeting member.
