Berry Johnson


George Berry Melton Johnson was a New Zealand rower who represented his country at the 1930 British Empire Games.

Early life and family

Born in Christchurch on 6 March 1906, Johnson was the son of Harry Melton Johnson, a cabinetmaker, and Maggie Smart Johnson. On 31 March 1934, he married Doreen Annie Greene at Highfield Presbyterian Church, Timaru.

Rowing

A member of the Otago Rowing Club, Johnson was a member of the New Zealand coxless four that competed at the 1930 British Empire Games in Hamilton, Ontario. The crew, which included Vic Olsson, Alex Ross and Charles Saunders, won the bronze medal.

Later life and death

Johnson worked as an accountant. During World War II, he served as a second lieutenant with the 3rd Field Regiment, New Zealand Artillery. His wife died in Dunedin on 20 May 1972. Johnson himself died in Christchurch on 28 August 1985, and his ashes were buried at Andersons Bay Cemetery, Dunedin, with those of his wife.