Peter Hassell Johnson

GARDINER – Peter Hassell Johnson, known affectionately to many as PJ or Mr. J, passed away on Nov. 28, 2024. Peter was born in Plainfield, New Jersey, on Dec. 7, 1944, to George C. and Lois Fancher Johnson. Peter spent most of his professional life in private and public education, which was a testament to his thoughtful, compassionate and giving demeanor.

Peter was raised in Plainfield, N.J., where he graduated from high school in 1962 at the young age of 16. He took a post grad year at the Good Will-Hinckley School in 1963. After graduation he furthered his studies at Monmouth College in Long Branch, N.J., graduating in 1967 with a BS in history. Peter returned to Hinckley where he worked as a faculty member from 1969 to 1976. After leaving GWH, he worked at Fort Western Tire and Sports in Augusta from 1976 to 1979. His passion for the outdoors then led him to the Hunting and Fishing Department at L.L. Bean until 1991 before returning to teaching and coaching at Hall-Dale High School in 1992. Peter retired from teaching in 2011, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the field of public education and coaching. Peter touched countless lives with his warmth and wisdom. He was a knowledgeable individual who dedicated his life to the service of others, particularly his children, grandchildren and his students, whom he held most dear.

Peter’s love for life was not limited to the classroom. He was an avid sports and antiques enthusiast. His hobbies included fly fishing, hunting and other outdoor activities. He was also a previous board member for the Good Will-Hinckley School, and the board of appeals for the City of Gardiner. Peter’s coaching career began at Hinckley as a head soccer coach and finished with the Gardiner girls’ soccer team as an assistant. His efforts in coaching were recognized multiple times when he was named the MVC Coach of the Year for Soccer and Track. He was also a proud grant recipient of the Appalachian Trail Mountain Rescue.

Peter’s profound knowledge and love for history and antiques continued well into retirement. Many colleagues looked to him for his vast knowledge and expertise. He and Mary Ann opened 1 Brunswick Trading Cigars & Antiques in 2015, where he spent many days enjoying his time in conversation with his customers. 

“The farther backward you can look, the farther forward you can see.” – Winston Churchill.

Peter is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Ann Suozzo Johnson, son Kenneth (KC) and spouse Tracy Chadwick Johnson, daughter Meredith (Mimi) and spouse Brad Hendrickson, son Peter Hassell, Jr. and spouse Janny Garcia, stepdaughter Lisa and spouse J.J Farris. Peter leaves behind his grandchildren, Madelyn and Kole Johnson, Lauren and Caroline Hendrickson, Joseph, Joshua and Jacob Garcia, and Jillian and Morgan Farris. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Lois, and his brothers Edward and Robert. Peter was also predeceased by his uncle, Arthur Comi, and stepfather, Harry B. Martin, who both greatly influenced his life.

In the words of Henry Adams, “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” Peter’s influence will continue to resonate in the lives of those he had taught, coached and nurtured.

A special thank you to the staff at Maine Medical Center, Maine General Medical Center at Gray Birch Skilled Rehab and Beacon Hospice, and Gardiner Fire and Rescue for their dedicated care.

Please leave your memories and upload photos of Peter to the memorial page at http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Hall Dale Boys & Girls Track team in PJ’s memory. Donations may be mailed to Hall Dale Boosters c/o PJ / Boys & Girls Track, PO Box 385, Hallowell, ME 04347 or sent via Venmo at @HDBoosters-22. Your contributions will serve as a comforting reminder of Peter’s impactful life and indomitable spirit.