D. Peter "Pete" Johnson, Esq.

D. Peter "Pete" Johnson, Esq. died peacefully Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023. Pete exuded class and kindness in every aspect of his remarkable life.

He was born to Pauline and Luke Johnson on Sept. 18, 1955, in Erie, Pa. In 1991, Pete and Paula Swett married at Bucknell Hall. His love and respect for Paula had an intensity that established a valuable precept for his children.

Pete loved people, and people loved him. He embodied strength and courage and was known for his kindness and patience. A great friend, he was quick to laugh with others and make them laugh with a great story. An amazing father and Pop Pop, Pete spent innumerable hours playing games, fishing, talking, listening, and watching movies with his family. There was a shared love for one another that was extraordinary.

He was always positive, no matter the hardship, and found joy in the little things. His character was a striking juxtaposition of the love he brought to everyone around him and the lifetime of medical issues and chronic pain he endured. His inherent joy offered valuable lessons in dignity, strength, empathy, and compassion.

Pete led a life of dedicated and distinguished service through 28 years as Union County's District Attorney. When he was first elected in 1996, Pete did what no Union County DA had ever done — he stopped his private law practice to work full-time as a DA, even though the job was considered part-time. He is remembered for bringing a rare dedication to the position, training innumerable clerks and interns, exhibiting the highest ethical standards, and bringing a depth of criminal law knowledge that was respected statewide. He was one of the first District Attorneys to recognize the need for the protection and participation of victims in the outcome of criminal proceedings. During his tenure, he was a member of the Statewide Criminal Procedural Rules Committee, a co-founder of the Children's Advocacy Center at Geisinger, a past president of the Pennsylvania District Attorney's Association, and the longest-sitting DA in the state of Pennsylvania.

He is survived by his wife, Paula Swett; sons, Aaron (Katie) and Conor Quinlan (Missy); his late daughter, Molly Quinlan; and four grandchildren, Noah, Madeleine, Dylan, and Daniel.

Few people impact the lives of so many in such a lasting way. Pete leaves a legacy of love and laughter. He will be missed. We love you forever, Pete.

Pete's family will host a memorial service from 2 to 3 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at First Presbyterian Church in Lewisburg.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to Transitions of PA, 120 S 3rd St., Lewisburg, PA 17837; https://www.transitionsofpa.org or The Campus Theatre, 413 Market St., Lewisburg, PA 17837; https://www.campustheatre.org.

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