QBARS - v26n3 Joseph M. Johnson 1896-1972

Joseph M. Johnson
William Robinson, Portland, Oregon

Joseph Johnson, a long time friend of the American Rhododendron Society, passed away June 3, 1972, in Portland, Oregon.
Joe helped organize the American Rhododendron Society in the fall of 1944 and was one of the Board of Directors at the formation of the Society. He was show chairman of the first rhododendron show held in America at Portland, Oregon, in the park blocks opposite the Masonic Temple and Art Museum on May 12, 1945. He was show chairman in 1946 and again in 1947 when the Men's Garden Club of America and the American Rhododendron Society held a joint show at the Armory.

Joe received a Life Membership in 1955 presented by Claude I. Sersanous, A.R.S. President. The award came in recognition of Johnson's "meritorious horticultural achievements."

The Portland Chapter awarded Joe its highest honor and recognition by presenting the Bronze Medal on April 15, 1971, for his dedicated years of labor in the organization and development of the American Rhododendron Society.