Frederick W. Johnson, 83, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 7, 2024, surrounded by the love and blessings of his family. He was born in Southampton, MA to Rudolf Oscar H. and Alice E. Johnson.

Fred attended Williston Academy in Easthampton, MA and then graduated from the University of Massachusetts with a B.A. in Zoology. After graduating from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1967, he began his career at Edmund’s Veterinary Hospital in Northampton, MA and married his longtime friend Mary Burr. Together they started a family, and in 1973 moved to Dennis where Fred opened the Dennis Animal Hospital, one of the first veterinary hospitals on Cape Cod.

Being a veterinarian was a passion of Fred’s. He had a dedicated work ethic and spent 57 years of his life treating and caring for countless pets and developing genuine relationships with his clients. He was known for his knowledgeable and friendly disposition and was wholeheartedly devoted to the wellbeing of his patients. He spent his final years at Sturbridge Animal Hospital retiring in July at the age of 83. Throughout his career, he was an active member of the American Veterinary Medical Association as well as the Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association of which he was past-president. While living in Dennis, Fred served on the Dennis-Yarmouth School Committee and was a member of the Harwich-Dennis Rotary Club. He also obtained his pilot’s license and enjoyed flying over areas of New England.

Fred was blessed with three loving children, Peter Johnson of Santa Rosa, CA, Kate Dodge of Manchester, MA, and Rebecca Pearson of Brewster, MA. His love for his family grew with the addition of his beloved grandchildren, Bode Dodge, Heidi Dodge, Calla Pearson and Eve Pearson, whom he was fondly referred to as Papa. He cherished time with his family, especially enjoying ice cream sundaes, watching sports games, and celebrating birthdays and special occasions. In addition, Fred loved his many pets over the course of a lifetime, always considering them a part of the family.

His memory remained keen for the entirety of his life. He loved to tell stories, often reminiscing about his childhood with incredible detail. He is survived by his sister, Elizabeth Bolton of Mill Valley, CA and brother, Mark Johnson of Southampton, MA. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his brother, Richard Johnson of Amherst, MA.

In honor of Fred’s memory, donations can be made to The Veterinary Scholarship Trust of New England (www.veterinaryscholarshiptrust.org) and/or to the McCarthy Care Center, 73 Service Rd, East Sandwich, MA 02537. Services will be private.

Lovely written obituary & back in the day, Fred was a good friend & we spent many times together With his wife, Lindy & their children. May he rest in peace