The first time I met Herman Frithjof Johnson was through Helen Pomerance Johnson at a Christmas Retired Teachers Association of Chicago luncheon in 1999. He appeared immensely proud to have Helen at his side as his companion, as much as she was pleased to be a companion for him. It was visible that they both fulfilled their affirmation for each other.

Serenely at ease, strong in spirit, gentleness permeated his spirit accepting his current stage in life, as he made a genuine interest leaning forward to listen to the few words I spoke with him at the luncheon. I discovered that he loved to read and was interested in history. Herman was enjoying the occasion. Although Herman was limited in walking, his wheel chair did not restrict him from going places with Helen.

Some time later, I was reading a book about early European history and I recalled that Herman had a similar interest. I asked Helen if she would take my book to Herman and ask him to read a specific chapter, which he did. When I went to visit them, Herman gave his interpretation of the historical events. Discussing historical events with an intellectual partner makes history a lot easier to understand. I think Herman enjoyed the conversation and discussion as much as I did. I will miss my intellectual history buff.

I remember another pleasant experience with Herman. It was the time I bought this gorgeous atlas and being all excited about it. Again I asked Helen to take my book for Herman to look at it and check out the evasion routes and strategies of the armies during WW II. We talked about the pre and post WWII borders, and occupation of territories of Eastern Europe. Herman, again, came through with flying colors, as we enjoyed each other's intellectual stimulation regarding history. It was mutual satisfying feeling of accomplishment reviewing history in depth with an interested partner. Herman had profound insight from a military perspective.

I saw how Herman was deeply in love with Helen when he would worry about her safe return home when Helen and I went out for lunch. It was in the tone of his voice that expressed his affection and caring for her. I often mentioned to Helen that she is an unusual person who gives such personal care to Herman. It is the kind of strong loving relationship that many couples praise and applaud when they solemnly believe in their commitment to each other "in sickness and in health…."

Herman constantly acknowledged Helen for her devotion, dedication, and caring for him. Herman was a companion, and a friend to many. He will live in their hearts perpetually as we think about him. My intellectual history buff Herman will always be remembered by me.

Veronica Chemers
(Park Ridge, IL)
vchemers@yahoo.com
vchemers@oakton.edu
vc1600@yahoo.com