Mayor and Council Recognize Mr. Paul Johnson

Flags at City Hall and facilities are being lowered to half-mast today to recognize and give thanks for the life of Newfoundland and Labrador business leader and philanthropist, Mr. Paul Johnson.

Mr. Johnson was a trailblazer in the City of St. John’s and the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador.  He was known for his many accomplishments and outstanding financial contributions to community projects through the Johnson Family Foundation.

Projects such as the Railway Coastal Museum, Johnson Geo Centre, Grand Concourse, Harbourside Park in downtown St. John’s, Trail of the Caribou Memorial Park in Quidi Vidi, and the ‘Lookout’ on Signal Hill, have all been made possible because of Mr. Johnson’s contributions and tenacity.

Mr. Johnson’s work has been integral to the creation of numerous amenities enjoyed by residents and visitors to the City of St. John’s.  In 1997 he was awarded Freedom of the City of St. John’s for his many in-kind contributions and work. In 2005 he received the Legend Award for outstanding enhancements to the tourism industry in the City.

Mr. Johnson was Chairman of the Cruise Authority of Newfoundland and Labrador which later evolved into the Cruise Association of NL. He is also a recipient of the Order of Canada and the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador and was made an honorary doctor of laws by Memorial University of Newfoundland.

An unassuming, energetic and innovative individual, Paul Johnson loved his city, St. John’s and his province, Newfoundland and Labrador.  Both are much better off today because of his life and generosity.