Fred Johnson
Fredrick, “Freddie Boy” Johnson, 44 of Brookston, passed away unexpectedly on November 18th, 2024 at 5:46 pm at the University of Tennessee Medical Center of Knoxville surrounded by his loved ones. Born on March 11, 1980 in Indianapolis to the late Joe Johnson and Linda Barnaby, Fred grew up in Greenwood, IN. He graduated from Center Grove High School in 1998. After graduating, Fred moved to the Lafayette area, where he met the love of his life, his wife Sarah Johnson. Fred and Sarah married on October 20, 2007 in Battleground, IN and moved to Brookston. Fred earned a degree in HVAC and certifications in welding and worked as a laborer in the automotive industry for over 20 years.
Fred was a cherished member of the Brookston and Frontier community and was known for his genuine kindness, unwavering loyalty, and generosity. Fred was a member of the Lafayette Eagles 347 and the Leann Rime’s Fan Club (We know he is shaking his head at us but laughing for this!) Fred loved going on small road trips, listening to music that he and Sarah would take turns choosing along the way, and finding his favorite gas stations. Fred always enjoyed a stop at a “snack cart!” you never knew what Fred would come out with, but he was always thoughtful and had a snack for everyone! Fred enjoyed being outside, working in the yard, going for a walk, camping with friends, or playing catch with his son, Hank, were a few of his favorites. Fred had a deep love for all things sports, whether it was playing softball in his leagues, coaching or watching Hank play baseball or football, talking smack to his Fantasy Football buddies, or cheering on the Colts, IU, or his Braves. Fred instilled his love of sports, especially baseball, in Hank. Fred spent many hours at the baseball field. It was his and Hank’s happy place. He was on the board of the Frontier Recreational Baseball League, where he devoted much of his time, ambition, ideas, and love for the game to the community and its youth. Fred was very passionate about working with the baseball program and coaching young athletes. He believed strongly in the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and discipline, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that kids had the opportunity to grow and succeed both on and off the field.
You could not find a better son, son-in-law, or friend than Fred. He was a true friend- someone you could always rely on for support, a listening ear, or a much-needed laugh. You could also count on a great adventure or story to later laugh about when with Fred. His friendships were meaningful, full of memories, and he always showed genuine care for others. You always knew you could depend on Fred. Fred valued the importance of family. Whether it was family gatherings, creating memories with his nieces and nephews, or laughing together, he found great joy in being with loved ones. Fred was an amazing uncle. His nieces and nephews loved their Uncle Freddie. He was the fun uncle for sure!
Above all, Fred was a devoted husband and father. His greatest joy was Sarah and Hank. Fred always put Sarah and Hank first, providing them with unwavering love, strength, and support. He and Sarah’s marriage was a strong foundation for a life filled with love, joy, and shared memories, especially in raising their greatest blessing, Hanky. Fred was the proudest dad. Hank was the light of Fred’s life, a constant source of joy, laughter, and love. Fred cherished every minute spent with Hank, from bowling, baseball, going on trips, making silly videos, working on homework together, or watching their favorite teams play. You could not find a stronger bond than the bond Fred and Hank had. It left a smile on your face watching the two of them together. He was, without a doubt, the best dad. While we will miss Freddie dearly, we find comfort in knowing that he is now watching over Hank with a smile on his face, so proud of Hank and the family he leaves behind. His legacy will live on through his wife, son, and all who knew him.
Surviving along with his wife, Sarah and their son, Hank are siblings, Stephanie (Bruce) Phillips of Monrovia and Steve (Shannon) Johnson of Plainfield; mother, Linda (Joey) Barnaby of Plainfield. Sisters-in-law, Amanda (Fernando) Longoria of Lafayette and Lindsey (Dillon) Dishon of Battle Ground. Mother-in-law, Lori (Chuck) Tague of Lafayette and father-in-law, Jeff (Vicki) Holeman of Kokomo.
Fred is preceded in death by his father, Joe Johnson and stepmother, Wanda Johnson.
Friends may call from 4-8 PM (EST) Tuesday, November 26, 2024 at Hartzler-Clapper Funeral Home of Brookston. Funeral Service 11:00 AM (EST) Wednesday, November 27, 2024 also at Hartzler-Clapper Funeral Home. Father-in-law and Chaplain, Chuck Tague to officiate. Interment to follow in Brookston Cemetery.
In memory of Fred, family and friends and encouraged to wear your favorite sports gear, hoodies, or casual attire.
In lieu of floral arrangements, please consider memorial contributions to the Fred Johnson Memorial Fund located at Fountain Trust Company of Brookston. Memorial contributions to benefit Fred and Sarah’s son, Hank.