Fred and Deb Johnson Charitable Funds

It was a beautiful summer day on the lake when Fred and Deb met just outside the Barbee Hotel. Deb told the story with a smile as she knew Fred would be the man she was going to marry from the moment she laid eyes on him sitting on his boat.

Three years later they said “I do” and spent the rest of their lives together creating a legacy of hope in Kosciusko County.

Having lived in Warsaw for most of their lives, they described the city as the friendliest place they’d ever been.

Fred spent most of his years in real estate and serving on various boards including building committees, Indiana Real Estate, Indiana Association of Realtors, and the Home Owners Association.

He shared a story how his dear mentor walked him into a local bank to receive his first line of credit to start his rental business venture. “Everything was done with a handshake,” he said. Fred flourished as both a real estate agent and in the business world.

In his free time, he enjoyed building puzzle boxes, shooting guns, and woodworking – noting that his Dad, and one of the most influential people in his life, is responsible for his love of woodworking. Fred and his dad even built a home together.

Deb served her community by being in social work most of her life, with a special focus on children in need. “I began working with kids when I was just 12 years old,” she said. She was most known for her tenured role as the Executive State Director at Lifeline Youth & Family Services. “Throughout my life Fred has been my biggest cheerleader,” she said. “All that I have accomplished was because he kept encouraging me.”

In her free time, Deb enjoyed swimming, tennis, and walking.
While they spent quite a bit of time in Florida, Kosciusko County was the place they called home. When establishing their funds at the Community Foundation, the Johnsons’ goal was to continue giving back, and giving hope, to this community.

“We want others to continue being the best they can be with what they have and to know that there is always hope despite some challenging days,” they said.

The Fred and Deb Johnson Charitable Fund benefits Stillwater Hospice, Animal Welfare League, Magical Meadows, and the Salvation Army’s Operation Valor Program. They also created a fund to provide life enriching experiences for foster children and a scholarship fund to help Kosciusko County students pursue their educational dreams. Their legacy of hope will continue from their generosity.