Gaeyer Johnson

We are very sorry to share the passing of Mr. Gaeyer Johnson on Monday June 26th at St. Peter's Hospital. Gaeyer passed away peacefully with staff at his bedside. Gaeyer has been in declining health for the past few years with GI and respiratory concerns. Gaeyer celebrated his 80thbirthday on January 8, 2023.

Gaeyer began his life's journey facing the challenges of cerebral palsy. At the age of two he was placed at the Rome Developmental Center. He then moved to a state operated facility operated by O.D. Heck in Cairo, NY. In September of 1985, Gaeyer moved into the VanRensselaer IRA, and began working at the Center for Disabilities Sheltered Workshop. He then attended the New Visions/WWAARC Day Program until his retirement in 2018. As part of Gaeyer's retirement plan and desire to live in a quieter, slower paced home, he moved to the Krumkill IRA on April 12, 2023 where he lived until his passing.

Those who knew Gaeyer can attest to his kind and caring nature. He was n person who had a genuine concern for his housemates and friends, always ready to advocate for them and provide support during their times of need. Gaeyer's commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming home earned him the honorary title of "Mayor" at the VanRensselaer IRA, a role he embraced with pride. When he moved to the Krumkill IRA, he seamlessly assumed the position of the self-proclaimed "Mayor of Krumkill," spreading his warmth and sense of community to those around him.

In his leisure time and during his retirement, Gaeyer found joy in using his computer and watching YouTube videos. He looked forward to sunny days when he could go outside and enjoy the warmth of the sun. He enjoyed the company of others, and enjoyed welcoming people into his home. Gaeyer had a girlfriend named Sarah whom he lived with at the VanRen IRA for several years. Sarah moved out of the area, but they were able to maintain their friendship through Skype and Face Time.

Gaeyer did not recall his parents or family, and efforts to locate them were not successful. He developed a very close bond and relationship with Bob Minx who became his advocate. Bob, a relative of one of Gaeyer's former housemates, maintained a close relationship with Gaeyer over the years, visiting him regularly and providing unwavering support. In September 2008, Bob officially became Gaeyer's advocate, and in 2019, he took on the role of Gaeyer's Health Care Proxy. Their connection was truly special, and Gaeyer always looked forward to Bob's visits, cherishing their time together.

Our heartfelt sympathy on the loss of such a wonderful friend and our "Forever Mayor". May you feel the warmth that he brought into the world on each sunny day.