Chief Timothy M. “TJ” Johnson, 56, of Warren, Pennsylvania, lost his life in the line of duty shortly after responding to an EMS call on Monday evening, October 16, 2023. He passed away early Tuesday morning, October 17, at Warren General Hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest.

Tim was born in Warren on December 1, 1966, the son of the late Gary W. and Jane L. (Bertetto) Johnson. He was a graduate of Warren High School Class of 1985. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, with a bachelor’s degree in computer science. He was employed by Whirley Industries for 34 years and most recently was the IT director.

Tim was a very active member at Pleasant Volunteer Fire Department for 37 years. At the time of his death, he was chief and trustee, as well an EMT for over 35 years. Tim had also served Pleasant VFD as a secretary, deputy chief, and assistant chief. He worked tirelessly to ensure the residents of Pleasant and Watson Townships had the best fire and EMS protection possible. Tim was instrumental in obtaining several grants over the years to purchase the “latest and greatest” equipment. He was the truck committee chairman for six of the seven apparatus at the fire station. Tim was meticulous and detail oriented in the design and specifications of each one.

Tim was an avid Buffalo Bills fan and enjoyed hunting and spending time with his family and friends. He also enjoyed traveling and vacationing with family. Tim was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, Pleasant Township, where on June 19, 1993, he married the former Kathryn (Kathy) McAulay. In addition to his wife, Kathryn, he is survived by two children, Michael A. Johnson, and companion, Amanda, of Waterloo, South Carolina, and Emily K. Jameson, and husband, Shane, of Warren, Pennsylvania; one grandson, Liam J. Jameson; and his brother, Richard W. Johnson, and companion, Wendy, of Warren. He was a girl-dog dad to Sierra, Indi, and Ziva, who will miss his scratches and endless supply of treats.