Beloved son, grandson, nephew, cousin, friend, enthusiastic philosopher. Born April 6, 1988, in Toronto. Drowned July 26, 2011, in Last Mountain Lake, Sask., aged 23.
Brad Johnson packed more into his 23 years than many people do in a much longer life. At times, he found it a challenge to settle on just one interest. To him, almost everything could be engaging and worthy of his attention. He wasn't the type of person to be bored.
Brad was passionate about the environment. He was fascinated by computers. He appreciated poetry and he loved studying philosophy and history at the University of Regina, where he was in his third year.
He played the trombone, electric bass guitar and acoustic guitar. His musical tastes included Alexisonfire, the Beatles, Johnny Cash, Duke Ellington, Korn and the Nancy Ray-Guns.
He read science fiction and history. He cooked tasty, nutritional meals. He worked in consumer research, roofing and restaurants. He also planted trees for two summers in northern Alberta. He always wanted to learn. He was involved in politics, and served as vice-president of the Green Party of Saskatchewan for a year. He liked making others laugh and he was compassionate. Most of all, Brad loved being with other people.
Born in Toronto, at age 2 he moved with his parents to Regina to be closer to family. In Grade 12, he decided he wanted to take the enriched International Baccalaureate history course. He loved challenges. He warned his parents, "I'd get a higher mark if I took regular history." It turned out to be his best grade. His teacher said that Brad could have been premier some day. We'll never know.
Although he was not a naturally gifted athlete, Brad played high-school football for the Luther Lions in Regina. In his first season the team didn't win one game. In Brad's final season, the Lions won every game, including the provincial title, and Brad was named an all-star. Luther College High School now offers the Bradley Johnson Award for the player who best demonstrates enthusiasm and encourages all his teammates to be better.
A scholarship in Brad's name at the University of Regina means someone will be getting a university education who wouldn't otherwise.
Unlike a lot of people who spend much of their lives wishing they were doing something else, somewhere else, with someone else, Brad was always happy where he was at the moment. Although he lived for only 23 years, his life was full when measured by his experiences and the impact he had on other people's lives.
His sudden, accidental death, while swimming at a lake he was visiting with friends, is a reminder that it's vital to live life to the fullest and enjoy every moment of every day.
People remember Brad for his sense of humour and enthusiasm. His influence on his family and friends will live on forever.
By Dale Johnson and Rita Schiller, Brad's parents.