Arthur K. Johnson, age 77, of Edgartown, died on Oct. 24, 2008, after a short stay at Falmouth Hospital. He was the beloved husband of Patricia E. Glover Johnson.

Arthur was born in Milton and attended Milton schools, graduating in 1950. Shortly thereafter he enlisted in the Coast Guard, where he served on the U.S.S. Coos Bay, having an honorary discharge in 1954.

In 1961 he married Pat and they resided in Quincy for 35 years.

He worked several years in the electronic industry. In 1964 he joined the Quincy Fire Department, becoming a lieutenant in 1977. He served 32 years on the department, the last several in Fire Prevention, retiring in 1996 at the age of 65.

In 1981 they built a vacation home in Meredith, N.H. Many happy weekends and summertimes were spent there with their grandchildren — fishing, boating, swimming and sledding.

Besides Pat, his wife of 47 years, Arthur is survived by his son Thomas and wife, Kelli, of Norwell, and son Eric of Easton. He is survived by his grandchildren Amanda, Matthew, Michael, Edward, Abigail and Kelsey. He is also survived by his brother George and wife, Dorothy, of Lincolnshire, Ill., and brother Ralph of Ithaca, N.Y. and several nieces and nephews. Arthur was predeceased by his beloved daughter Claudia in 2005 and brother Wilbur in 1999.

Arthur and Pat first vacationed in Edgartown in 1986 and shortly thereafter purchased land and built a home in 1998 which became their retirement home. Here was the perfect place for enjoying his favorite outdoor activities — fishing and gardening. To make the winter months more enjoyable, he would start planting the seeds for his vegetable garden and growing them in his “hot house.” Arthur enjoyed being a member of the Martha’s Vineyard Rod and Gun Club. He was a long-time member and communicant at St. Andrews Church in Edgartown.

A family graveside service was held on March 12, 2009 at the New Westside cemetery in Edgartown, with Rev. Stephen White reading the service. Funeral arrangements were under the care of Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home. Visit ccgfuneralhome.com for online guest book and information.