Angels Camp, CA…Clarence Thomas (C.T.) Johnson. Our beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather and friend passed into God’s hands on November 12, 2018 due to natural causes. He was 93. C.T. was born in Hardyville, Kentucky on August 29, 1925 to James and Beulah Johnson. He had 5 brothers and 3 sisters, all of whom preceded him in death. C.T. graduated high school in 1943 and on June 14, 1943, at the age of 17, enlisted in the Navy. He was stationed in Great Lakes, Illinois. From 1943-1946, he served in the Navy as a Coxswain on the USS San Francisco (CA-38). The USS San Francisco was one of the most decorated ships of WWII earning 17 battle stars.

In 1972, C.T. moved his family to Angels Camp from Ojai, Ca when he and his wife Nadine purchased The Motherlode Frosty. They owned and operated the Frosty from 1972-1996. During those 24 years, C.T. touched many lives with his sense of humor, kindness and generosity. In 1973, he had the big green frog carved out of an old log from the Airola Ranch. The frog was placed in front of the Frosty where it received a lot of attention and became a point of interest for travelers. Countless people of all age groups would stop and have their picture taken with the frog. The frog also became a point of rivalry between Bret Harte High and Calaveras High. C.T. was a happy man when the frog made its way back home to Bret Harte High School.

C.T. served on the board of directors of CCWD (Calaveras County Water District) for 8 years. He became a Mason in 1976 and joined the I.O.O.F (Independent Order of Odd Fellows) in the 80`s. He was also a Past Grand High Priest of the Grand Encampment of California.

C.T. is survived by his wife of 60 years, Nadine Johnson; 4 children: Jackie Cordova (Matt) of Las Vegas NV, Mark Johnson (Gina) of Tracy Ca, Deena Shodeen (Roger) of Oakdale Ca, and Loree Davis (Larry) of Sonora Ca; 9 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren and many extended family members.

C.T. was known as Papa to countless children, friends and family. His greatest gifts were his generosity, sense of humor, and sacrifice. He was a humble man with incredible charm and deep love for his family, friends and community.

A Service in his memory will be held on Saturday, December 15th at 11 am, at the First Baptist Church, 1555 Depot Rd, Angels Camp. A graveside military salute will immediately follow at the Protestant Cemetery, 228 Monte Verde St., Angels Camp. A reception following the graveside services will be held at the Angels Gun Club, 2403 Gun Club Rd., Angels Camp.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to I.O.O.F Hope Lodge #33, P.O. Box 833, Angels Camp 95222. For more information please contact Jamie Mather 209-595-9173.