Mark Edwin "Shorty" Johnson

Canandaigua - Mark Edwin “Shorty” Johnson, age 76, passed away Monday, June 29, 2026, at Serenity House in Victor, surrounded by love. He is survived by his wife, Mary Jo Johnson; two daughters, Katie Johnson (Zach Baker) and Ashley Johnson (Kurtis Stack); stepson, Anthony (Jane) Marrero; ten grandchildren, Alexander, Aislinn and Austin Baker, Evalyn, Theron and Jordyn Stack, Xylo, Abigail, Annabell and Janine Marrero; sister, Sandra (Fritz) Tatzer; brother-in-law, Michael Ferugia; sister-in-law, Jennifer Johnson; and many nieces and nephews. Mark was predeceased by his parents, Lloyd and Doris Johnson; two brothers, George and Bruce Johnson; sister, Marilyn Johnson; father-in-law, Charles Ferugia; and sister-in-law, Mary Ferugia.

Mark was born in Rochester, New York, on April 1, 1950. He grew up on West Gibson Street in Canandaigua and graduated from Canandaigua Academy in 1968. Mark served from 1968-1970 in the US Army during the Vietnam War, stationed in Louisiana, where he ascended to the rank of Sergeant Cook. After his time in the service, he traveled across the country to California with his brother Bruce. Upon returning to NY, Mark worked as a hot walker at Finger Lakes Racetrack, where his love for thoroughbreds began. Years later, he was able to own his own horse, Tropicarr, with lifelong friend, William Newkirk. Eventually, Mark settled at Mobil Chemical/Pactiv, where he retired in 2011. An avid sports fan, you could always find him cheering for his beloved LA Rams and Boston Red Sox. Mark traveled with Mary Jo across the world for canine agility competitions in Germany and the Netherlands. In 2003, he traveled to Maui with his daughters for Katie’s Make-A-Wish Foundation trip. While he slowed down in more recent years, time spent with family and old friends was important to Mark. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

In honoring Mark’s wishes, there will be no services. A celebration of life will be held Sunday, July 12, from 2:00-4:30 pm at the Green Front Restaurant, 35 Niagara St., Canandaigua. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Serenity House, 1278 Brace Road, Victor, NY 14564, where Mark received the most compassionate care in his final weeks. Arrangements are by Johnson-Kennedy Funeral Home, Inc., Canandaigua. Condolences may be offered at www.johnsonkennedy.com.