It is with great sadness that the family of Dwayne Michael Johnson, announce his passing. Dwayne died at home in Barrie surrounded by family and loved ones on September 29, 2021, after a courageous battle with cancer.
He will be greatly missed by his three wonderful children Sophie, Nigel and Kate, his partner Trish Macdonald, parents Roger and Gail Johnson, brother and sister-in-law Brad and Julie Johnson, stepchildren Rebecca and Connor, grandfather Cecil Johnson, and many family and friends.
Born in Sudbury, he had the thrill to live in many different places. His years in Lahr Germany, Barrie, Hamilton and other cities created his love of travel, adventure and many lifelong friends.
After having graduated from McMaster University, Dwayne began working with the Ontario Provincial Police, a career he truly loved. His dedication, leadership and laughter will be remembered fondly by all who had the opportunity to work with him.
Although Dwayne excelled at his job, his true passion was his children, family and friends. Whether spending time at a cottage, at home or sitting around a poker table, Dwayne’s love of life and family were seen every day.
Dad, Son, Partner, Brother and Friend, Dwayne we will miss you.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Research Society would be greatly appreciated by the family.
A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, October 15, from 3:00 – 7:00 pm at Liberty North banquet hall; 100 Caplan Avenue, Unit 1, Barrie, Ontario. Hall will require Proof of double vaccination and government ID at the door.
Peaceful Transition Simcoe
Karen Archer
Posted on: Monday, October 4, 2021I’m sadden to learn the news of Dwayne’s passing. I had the privilege of working with Dwayne (Tiny) at Base Borden during our Reserve days. Our gang of friends had a lot of fun together on and off the base. He truly was a kind, caring soul and he will be dearly missed. May his light live on through his children. Condolences to the family.
Cathy (Locke) Wilson
Posted on: Monday, October 4, 2021Although it’s been a few years since I last seen Dwayne, I will remember him was a gentle giant with a great smile. Sending love and strength to all his family and friends.
Joe and Ellen Kalbhenn
Posted on: Monday, October 4, 2021Roger, Gail and Family , Joe and I were so sorry to hear of Dwaynes passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. Loving thoughts and prayers. Joe and Ellen. Kalbhenn
Maria Lewtas
Posted on: Monday, October 4, 2021Deepest condolences to Sophie, Nigel ,Kate , Trish and all Dwayne’s family .
Our hearts goes out to you all ,Dwayne was a true gentleman he will be greatly missed by many who where blessed to have known and called him a friend .
You are all in our hearts and prayers
The Lewtas family
Anthony Smith
Posted on: Tuesday, October 5, 2021I was very saddened to learn of Dwayne’s passing. He was a highly respected Team Leader and trusted member of our unit. I can echo the words of his colleagues who would routinely describe him as being hard working, kind, strong, resilient, caring, and reliable. All of the characteristics you would want from a co-worker and a friend! He spoke often of Trish and his kids, was proud of their accomplishments and obviously cared deeply for his family. Please accept my deepest sympathies at this sorrowful time.
Jacqueline Dowhaniuk
Posted on: Tuesday, October 5, 2021This news is very difficult to come to terms with and leaves a gaping hole in the OPP. We’ve been missing him for some time now, since he last graced the halls of our office. He leaves behind a throng of co-workers who admired, respected and genuinely cared for him – as he did for them. The work day didn’t begin until our morning check-ins, when Dwayne would come into our office and connect with his team. During this time, his hearty laugh would inevitably echo down the halls – and that is what I will miss most. To all those who knew and loved him, I am so deeply sorry for the loss of your Dad, partner, son, brother, friend and co-worker. He was one of a kind, who meant so much to so many people.
Thais Johnson
Posted on: Tuesday, October 5, 2021My sincere condolences to all of the family. Dwayne is loved and will be missed by everyone who knew him. He will remain forever in our hearts. My love and best wishes to all the family. Thais
Darcy Bruce
Posted on: Tuesday, October 5, 2021Rest in peace brother.
Chris Lewis
Posted on: Tuesday, October 5, 2021I was so sorry to just learn of Dwayne’s passing. He will be greatly missed.
Chris Lewis, OPP Commissioner (Ret.)
Norine Liggett
Posted on: Tuesday, October 5, 2021It’s been years since I’ve seen Dwayne, I first met him in 1988 in Borden. I have many memories of working with him and having a great time. His smile lights up a room. My sincere condolences to all his family and friends.
Dorian Dwyer
Posted on: Tuesday, October 5, 2021We met when you were posted in Walkerton and I was in Mount Forest and reconnected later in out Anti-Rackets and Asset Forfeiture years. I remember all too clearly when you told me about your diagnosis over a coffee meet and again on your return to work. You had your chin up and kept a positive outlook. I always enjoyed our chats and you were a pleasure to work with. You will be sadly missed by all. My condolences to your family and everyone impacted by your passing. R.I.P Dwayne.
Ken Johnston
Posted on: Tuesday, October 5, 2021Dwayne and I went to Aylmer together and our badge numbers were 1 apart. We started together in Walkerton and although we went to opposite shifts stayed connected. I haven’t spoken to Dwayne for several years but he will always be my brother and I am devistated to hear this news Rest In Peace
Wade McHattie
Posted on: Tuesday, October 5, 2021Although we hadn’t seen each other for a few years, I considered Dwayne friend and all round great guy. Please accept my condolences and I wish you strength as you grieve the loss of such a special guy.
Neil Oleskiw
Posted on: Wednesday, October 6, 2021I can remember Doing many things With Big D which Brought Laughter and great memories.
But the thing I remember most about Dwayne.
most people have lots of friends but only a few great ones. Dwayne had lots of great friends, as a testament to the type of person Everyone that got to know him knew how great of a person he was and will never forget him.
Jeff Callacott
Posted on: Wednesday, October 6, 2021I am deeply shocked and saddened upon hearing of Dwayne’s passing.
We were both military “brats” and ended up in high school together in Barrie after moving from West Germany.
I was one of Dwayne’s army instructors at CFB Borden while he was going through military basic training. Trying to teach Dwayne (aka Tiny) how to march and do basic foot drill still makes me laugh to this day.
Tiny was larger than life and a gentle giant. A very good friend that I was fortunate to have.
My sincere condolences to Dwayne’s family and friends.
Umar Shabazz
Posted on: Wednesday, October 6, 2021Dwayne was a true gentleman and a brother. Thanks for all your help and my sympathy to your family.
Adam and Susan Alderson
Posted on: Wednesday, October 6, 2021Our sincere condolences to Sophie, Nigel , Kate , Trish and all of Dwayne’s family.
Adam and Susan Alderson
Beth Fontaine
Posted on: Wednesday, October 6, 2021Dwayne aka “Tiny” your smile and laughter always brought joy and happiness to everyone you met !
My sincerest condolences to your Family. Rest In Peace buddy.
Stefan Lacaille
Posted on: Thursday, October 7, 2021My deepest sympathy for your loss.
Colin Coleiro
Posted on: Thursday, October 7, 2021So saddened to hear of Dwayne’s passing. One of the good ones gone too soon. Lots of great memories working with you. Rest in peace brother. 🙏
Melody Tourigny
Posted on: Saturday, October 9, 2021My heartfelt condolences to Dwayne’s children and family.
I had the pleasure of getting to know Dwayne when I worked at OPP headquarters just before his diagnosis.
He was lighthearted and jovial, had a calm gentleness about him, and always smiling. I recall a conversation in which he spoke fondly of his years in Europe As an army brat and how he wanted to go back again to explore more. And after his first return to work after treatment I recall him telling me a plan after retirement – to take up a career in real estate despite his obvious love of police work.
He spoke with such admiration, love and pride of his children.
Dwayne it’s quite obvious you left an enormous Legacy of love, family and friendship everywhere you went.
Rest In Peace my friend.
Kim Burrell
Posted on: Sunday, October 10, 2021Man … took me some time to write something.
Dwayne you will be truly missed . I will miss that big smile you had . We always had some great chats when you would drop of kate .
I remember our conversations about your illness ..and I will never forget the last .
Dwayne my only regret was not saying goodbye.
I wish all the family and friends strength at this time .
Thinking of you all .
Kim,Makayla & Taylor
Cpl. RJ Adlam, RCMP, Regina, SK
Posted on: Monday, October 11, 2021Dwayne was a superior investigator with a great understanding of people and the dynamics of JFO policing in Ont. In 2012 I came out of GD in the Maritimes into the Mounties’ financial crime unit in the GTA ready to pound my way through bad guys full throttle & head first, that wasnt recieved well. Thankfully I found myself tempered by this giant, thoughtful, OPP officer who was integrated into our unit. It was Dwayne who taught me, by example, the art of measured tenacity in the long game, international investigation arena. Dwayne never set out to be a mentor or my friend, it just happened because of his work ethic, professionalism, and respect for people. Thank you Dwayne for your example and support, may you rest in peace.
Peggy Fournier
Posted on: Tuesday, October 12, 2021I am truly sadden to learn the news of Dwayne’s passing. My deepest condolences to Sophie, Nigel ,Kate, Trish and to all Dwayne’s family. I had the privilege of working with Dwayne in Integrated Proceeds of Crime. Dwayne was an outstanding investigator with an unbelievable sense of humor. I knew from day one we would be friends. Dwayne you were a big man, with a big smile and a big heart. You will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing you.
Linda Dunbar
Posted on: Wednesday, October 13, 2021I was surprised and saddened to hear about Dwayne’s passing. Definitely lost too soon. We worked together at Queen’s Park around 2003. We certainly had some interesting times. Thank you Dwayne for your kindness back then. My sincere condolences to his family.
Darlene Tolman
Posted on: Wednesday, October 13, 2021Extending my deepest sympathies to Roger and Gail, Dwayne’s partner and his beautiful children. I fondly remember our summer afternoon visit August 2008 in Barrie and remarking to his Aunt Beverly on our drive back to Burlington that he is a fine upstanding young man! Sincerest condolences, Darlene Tolman
Christina Ciavarella
Posted on: Thursday, October 14, 2021My deepest sympathy to the Johnson family, Roger, Gail, Brad, his partner and children. I remember him as a child with a big smile and soft friendly demeanor. May he rest in peace and may you all find comfort in the memories that will forever be in your heart. Christina and Peppe
Mike Biddiscombe
Posted on: Thursday, October 14, 2021Dwayne and I were good friends in high school and beyond. Served in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserve together. While we went our separate ways in the past couple decades he was an important figure in my life at the time. I have too many stories to list here and it chokes me up to think about my friend. He helped me through many things in our youth and perhaps I could share those and other fun stories with his family someday. Tiny had a good heart, not perfect as none of us are but he lit up a room as all who knew him well can attest. I remember him as a kind soul and a good man. The world is a lessor place now. Condolences to all his family and friends. He touched us all and will continue to do so. Until we meet again rest in peace my friend.
Kathie Menard
Posted on: Friday, October 15, 2021My beautiful friend, thank you for so many years of friendship. You will always be in my heart ❤️
Kathie Menard
Posted on: Monday, October 18, 2021I will always cherish our time together. Friends for all of eternity. Until we meet again my friend.
Dale Duchesne
Posted on: Sunday, October 24, 2021I first met Dwayne when I transferred to the RCMP Integrated Proceeds of Crime Unit located in Newmarket. Dwayne was one of the first people I met upon my arrival. I was immediately struck by his gregarious personality, his laugh was infectious, and I soon realized that Dwayne was an excellent member, a tenacious, focused, and dedicated investigator, and an ‘all round’ great guy. During his tenure with the RCMP, Dwayne represented the OPP with professionalism; he was a stellar officer, he was proud to be a member of the OPP. And he worked with RCMP members in the most collaborative way. When he moved on it was the RCMP’s loss, to be honest. I along with my RCMP colleagues who worked with Dwayne are so saddened by his passing. Dwayne was taken far too young; our sympathy is with his family. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this painful and difficult time.
Mary Fleury
Posted on: Monday, July 4, 2022Sophie and Family, I only just learned of your Dad’s passing. I am so very sorry for your loss. Liliya went to your birthday party when you were a little girl and we loved your Dad instantly. Years later, I ran into him in Barrie and had a long talk about his OPP experience, since I also worked there many years ago. He had such a fantastic personality. I hope you find peace in knowing that he was a terrific person. My condolences again! 🙏🏻