“Every day is a gift. Embrace life and shine on. Share the joy and find goodness and love in all things,” said Eric Johnson (EJ). He was a friend, a brother, an uncle, a son and so much more.

I met EJ back in 1985. He was a friend of Scott’s from high school. I liked him right away. He was personable and loves to laugh, but there was more. I noticed there was something special about him. He had a positive energy. You couldn’t help but feel uplifted being around him.  He was like a magnet and could draw people to him. A presence bigger than life or so it seemed.

EJ grew up in Monticello. He excelled in sports and music and the one-act plays at school. He was well-rounded in every aspect.

He was a natural athlete. He played football, basketball and ran track. In his humble manner, he told me of his state records set in track. 

EJ was a member of the high school band and choir. He continued his love of music into his most recent years at church and the Wright County Chamber Choir.

I don’t know much about his time in one-act plays.  I can only imagine he was good, just like anything he set out to do. These accolades made him a legacy in high school, although his genuine kindness towards everyone stood out the most.

We had fun over the years. Each time we saw EJ, he was the same cheerful person he had always been. He greeted us with a smile and a hug. It was as though no time had passed and we picked up where we left off.

EJ was an exceptional sales and businessman. He traveled all over the world and was successful. Like everyone, he had his share of trials and tribulations. He chose to take the good out of the tough times. He gained wisdom and insight. He rose above and continued to smile – that’s EJ.

We lost track of each other for a while but got back in touch a few years ago. I called him and we picked right up where we left off. Time passed but not the friendship. We talked about life, family, Scott and our passions.

It was nice reminiscing about old times. EJ talked about getting to know Scott in high school and at church. EJ was an athlete and involved in the extracurricular activities in school. Scott was more of a rebel. EJ didn’t care. He liked people for who they were. EJ said, “I liked Scott because he was a nice guy and fun to talk to.” He didn’t believe in labels. He decided for himself and chose to see the good.  

We talked poetry, music, sports, etc. Music was his passion. He said, “I was thinking how much music moves me. Not the finished product, but the journey along the way. If I had to live my life over, I would listen to music and read poetry every day.” He played the piano beautifully and offered to help me learn again, if I went and played tennis with him. I waited too long for the lesson but we did play tennis.

Helping others was his second nature. EJ was living in Buffalo and was looking after his mom and dad. He was happy and it showed.

“I was at a restaurant and there was a young mom with two kids in front of me. Her card rejected. I got it,” EJ said.  I know he helped someone go to college and someone go on a trip.

Whenever he had the chance to lighten someone’s burden, he did. His heart led the way. It was his gift. He inspired me.

I think back to last August when I stopped to visit. We talked and laughed. He gave me a hug and said, “I love you Shellbell, say “Hi” to Scottie for me.”

We were heartbroken to hear of his passing a few weeks ago. Life changes quickly.

A few quotes from Eric Johnson. “If you get an opportunity every day, make someone’s day. Life is to be lived and embraced. Share the joy, more people should try. Follow your passion. Have a super day because you can. You don’t have to forget, but you can forgive. Dreams come true. Shining on one person can make a difference. You never know what might shine back some day.”

Thank you my friend.