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03/08/2022 03:22 PM

Madison Mourns Loss of Town Icon Gunnar Johnson


Gunnar Johnson, shown here in his 2010 Person of the Week profile photo, was, along with his wife and business partner Eileen, an indelible part of the Madison community. He died on Feb. 23. File photo by Jen Matteis/The Source

Longtime Madison business owner and promoter of all things Madison Gunnar Johnson died Feb. 23 at the age of 91, marking the end of an era for many who have not forgotten the dedication and service that both Johnson and his wife, Eileen, who passed away in 2013, undertook for their town.

Gunnar Johnson’s public service included membership in the Madison Jaycees, Madison Rotary (he was a two-time Paul Harris Fellowship award-winner), and the Westbrook Elks as well as a two-time past president of the Madison Chamber of Commerce. The chamber shared some of the accomplishments of the couple, including serving as co-chairs of the chamber’s Image Committee, which initiated many projects throughout town, including the town clock, the information kiosk, the hanging flower baskets, memorial benches custom trash receptacles/planters, and most notably, The Eileen Johnson Memorial Fountain in Tuxis Pond.

According to chamber officials, the fountain installation was Gunnar’s “pet project” and the chamber has established a fund to maintain this gem in the town center to help keep the Johnsons’ legacy alive. To make a donation, call the Madison Chamber of Commerce at 203-245-7394 or email chamber@madisonct.com.

A memorial service will be held later in the spring.