Paul John Johnsen

Paul J. Johnsen, 81, of 15 Mansfield Rd., North Haven, died Jan. 28, 2005. He was the husband of Mary M. (Jack) Johnsen. Other survivors include sons Donald R. Johnsen of Grafton, New Hampshire, David D. Johnsen of North Haven, a daughter, Carol L. Johnsen of Pahoa, Hawaii, a sister, Harriet Kneen of Marietta, Georgia, and two grandchildren, Riley D. Johnsen and Perry M. Johnsen. Mr. Johnsen began his 37-year career with the Southern New England Telephone Company as a customer service representative in Hartford. He became vice president of the company's northern area operations in 1965 and was then promoted to vice president of personnel in 1969, a position he held until his retirement in 1983. He graduated from Hillhouse High School, having been named to the Connecticut All-State Football Team his senior year, followed by an additional year of study at Deerfield Academy. A graduate of Yale University, Mr. Johnsen served in WWII aboard a naval destroyer as a gunnery officer in the Pacific and was recalled for similar duty during the Korean war. Mr. Johnsen served in many civic organizations, including chairman of Hartford's Anti-Poverty Program, The Community Renewal Team, chairman of Gaylord Hospital's board of directors, president of Junior Achievement of South Central Connecticut, treasurer of the New Haven Community Betterment Fund, director of Jackson Newspapers, member of the New Haven Bar Council Grievance Committee, and director of Red Cross and YMCA of New Haven. He was also a member of the New Haven Country Club, The Yale Club of New Haven, and the New Haven Gridiron Club. Calling hours will be Thursday, Feb. 3rd from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the BEECHER & BENNETT Funeral Home, 2300 Whitney Ave. in Hamden. A memorial service will be held Friday, Feb. 4th at 2:00 p.m. at the Church of the Redeemer, 185 Cold Spring St. in New Haven. A committal service for family members will be held at a later date. For information or to send a condolence visit:www.beecherandbennett.com.