ASHLAND – Einar A. (Pete) Johnson, 85, formerly of Ashland, Massachusetts, died June 10, 2022 in Bonita Springs, Fla., after a long period of declining health.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 65 years, Ruth (Potvin) Johnson.

Pete grew up in Newton and then Sudbury, Massachusetts.

He operated gas stations for many years, first in Ashland, then in Framingham, then owned and operated Marlboro Motor Parts, in Marlboro, for many years.

He enjoyed spending time in Newfound Lake, New Hampshire, where he built a family summer home over several decades. For nearly 50 years, this was the family’s favorite gathering place. He developed a passion for kayaking and later sold kayaks and canoes in Newfound Lake during his retirement. Pete was an active member of the Ashland Massachusetts Lions Club, at one time serving as president.

After 20 years as snowbirds between Ashland and Naples, Florida, he and Ruthie have happily settled in Bonita Springs, Florida with their beloved dog, Cookie. Pete had a very outgoing personality and made many friends throughout his life.

In addition to his wife, Pete is survived by his son David Johnson and his wife, Juliet, of Spring, TX, his daughter Jill Sanford and her husband, Steve, of Mattapoisett, MA, and his son Wayne Johnson and his wife Nicole , of Naples, Florida. He is survived by his granddaughter, Amy Johnson and her husband Jonny Manzanarez, and his great-grandson, Tyler Manzanarez, all of Key West, FL. He is also survived by his grandchildren Kara Sanford of North Attleborough, MA, Sean Sanford of New York, NY, and is predeceased by his grandson Daniel Sanford. Pete is survived by several nieces and nephews.

A private family service will be celebrated at Fuller’s Funeral Home in Naples, Florida, and interment will follow at a later date at Wildwood Cemetery, Ashland, Massachusetts.

Donations in Pete’s name can be made at https://hsnaples.org to the Humane Society Naples.