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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
JOHNSON, Kenneth Carl - Carl passed away peacefully in the company of family on May 28, 2023, at the age of 88. Born in Glace Bay in 1934, he was the son of the late Evelyn (née Buckland) and Kenneth Johnson. He grew up with his older brother Lorne, and younger sister Sandra. At a young age, Carl helped deliver groceries for the Co-op by horse and wagon and served as mascot for the Water Street Sea Rovers senior softball team. A self-described rink rat, he cleaned the ice at the Miner's Forum, and later played for Caledonia in the Glace Bay Midget League.
Upon finishing school, Carl served in the Royal Canadian Navy. Subsequently, he began a hockey career in various roles including player, marketing manager, founder of a minor hockey association, and player agent. He was associated with the Sacramento Senators, Long Island Ducks, Florida Rockets, Memphis South Stars, and Springfield Kings.
Carl was a coordinator of Canada Hockey Schools in the United States, alongside his good friend Doug Harvey. He went on to open the Black Hawk Sporting Goods store in St. Catharines. Later, he founded Mr. Jackets, a Canada-wide sporting goods enterprise, and designed the original Toronto Blue Jays baseball cap. He also created, manufactured, and marketed the hockey-themed board game "Face-Off," which was added to the collection of the Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa.
Above all else, Carl was a proud Cape Bretoner. A master storyteller, he was a poet, guitarist, and singer-songwriter. In recent years, he also added "author" to his list of accomplishments. Carl wrote and self-published his autobiography, Hockey's Sticks and Stones, in which he recounts his colourful career in sports, as well as many other adventures. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
Carl was predeceased by his brother Lorne (June) Johnson, and sister Sandra (Eric) Irwin. He is survived by his daughter Lenorre (Stuart) Saraquse, granddaughters Blayke and Beren, as well as five nieces and nephews. In keeping with his wishes, he was cremated. Arrangements have been entrusted to Essentials Cremation and Burial Services. Carl loved animals, especially his dog Rebel. Donations in Carl's name may be made to the Cape Breton SPCA.
Information regarding a celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Interment will take place at Greenwood Cemetery in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia.
No challenge remained, No mountains to climb, The journey has ended, Silenced by time. I'm home from away, With family again, A field of green, No words to amend. - C. Johnson (The St. Catharines Standard 08 Jun 2023)
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