Walter "Chuck" Johnson

Walter (Chuck) Johnson, 80, of Hilton Head Island, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

Born in Oceanside, NY, Chuck proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy, where he was deployed to Da Nang, Vietnam, as part of Special Maritime Operations. He later continued his service in the Navy Reserves. Afterward, he pursued higher education at the University of Fort Lauderdale and the University of Miami, earning a degree in Aviation Administration and Management.

Early in Chuck’s career, he flew medical transport planes in Florida and later worked as a bank manager for Hanover Trust on Long Island. In 1996, Chuck, his wife Andrea, and daughter Marin moved to Hilton Head, where he managed Broad Creek Marina. Holding a 1600 Ton Masters Near Coastal captain’s license, he went on to captain ships for Stevens Towing Company in Charleston, Moran Towing in Savannah, and Vagabond Cruise in Hilton Head.

A true mariner at heart, Chuck loved ships, sailing, and lighthouses. He was also an avid reader of history and NY Giants fan.  At home, he delighted in the Christmas season, known for his ever-growing outdoor light display that brought joy to family, friends, and neighbors alike.

Chuck is survived by his beloved wife, Andrea; daughters Marin Johnson and Laurie Rutherig; and granddaughter Kaylin Rutherig, along with many other family members and friends who will miss him dearly and treasure their memories of him forever.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Chuck’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Hilton Head Humane Society.