Donald L. Johnson, 77, passed away on May 24, 2025, at his home in West Stockbridge. He was born in Patterson, N.J., on May 6, 1948, the son of the late Gilbert and Barbara Colling Johnson. Don and his family came to the Berkshires in 1962. He graduated from high school in 1966.
From an early age, Don was able to take apart and put back together all kinds of engines. During his high school years, he was a mechanic at the former Yellow Coach Bus Lines in Pittsfield.
In 1968, Don enlisted in the U.S. Navy as an engine mechanic. He served his country for four years and was honorably discharged in 1972. Upon leaving the Navy, Don worked as a mechanic for Williams’ Paving while studying to get his plumbing license. He started his own plumbing business, “Don Johnson Plumbing & Heating,” in 1978. He was a master plumber, master pipefitter, gas fitter, and oil burner technician. Don retired from plumbing in 2022.
In his spare time, Don ran a small machine shop consisting of two lathes and a Bridgeport Mill. You could often find him working in his shop, which he called his “Happy Place.”
Don was known for his kindness, giving nature, and gentle spirit.
Don met his wife, the former Erin Gray, in 2013. They shared 12 wonderful years together.
Besides his wife, Don leaves his sister Barbara Schmidt and her husband Paul of Atlanta, Ga.; five nephews; and his cousins, Connie Moquist of Provincetown, Mass., and Mark Moquist of Ballston Spa, N.Y. He leaves his in-laws, Robert and MaryEllen Gray of Housatonic, and his brother-in-law Robert Gray of West Stockbridge. Don also leaves behind many close friends.
In keeping with Don’s wishes, there will be no services. Donations in his memory can be made to the Berkshire Humane Society in care of Birches-Roy Funeral Home, 33 South Street, Great Barrington, MA 01230. Condolences may be made through the funeral home’s website.
