James Donald Johnson, 75, of Worcester, died Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at home.

    He leaves his wife of 51 years, Rachel (Louk) Johnson; a son, David A. Johnson and his wife, Barbara of Stoughton; two daughters: Vicki L. Bayrouty and her husband, George and Christine A. Keidan and her husband, Michael all of Worcester; a brother, David Johnson of Hudson, NH., a sister, Janice Kilpatrick of NJ., six grandchildren: Lauren, Zachery, Brandon, Devin, Benjamin and Noah and nieces and nephews. James was born in Worcester, a son of Alvin and Anna (Sliwoski) Johnson.

    Mr. Johnson worked as an Animal Control Officer for Worcester and later for the Town of Sturbridge after retiring from the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a Power Production Technician. He graduated from Classical High School and later received his Associate’s degree from Becker Junior College and a Bachelor’s degree from Worcester State College. During his twenty years in the Air Force he traveled throughout the world. His tours of duty included, Morocco (where he met his wife), Germany, France, Spain, Alaska, Vietnam and throughout the U.S. James was a longtime, proud member and a past two-time Commander of Tatnuck Post 288, American Legion. He volunteered for many years doing taxes for the elderly of Worcester County. His hobbies included freshwater fishing, swimming in the ocean off Cape Cod and cars. James had maintained and traveled with his 1963 Ford Galaxy 500 with passion and care. He loved parties and get-togethers, and was an excellent dancer, poker and pool player in his younger days. James was a wonderful husband, father, brother, and grandfather.

     A graveside funeral service will be held on Saturday, December 19, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. in Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Ave, Paxton. There are no calling hours. HENRY – DIRSA FUNERAL HOME, 33 Ward St., is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his honor and his beloved dog Jake to the MSPCA-Angell Headquarters, 350 South Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02130.