By James Chevrette
We lost another good one. Aaron Johnson, a well-loved Canadian distributor sales rep passed away suddenly on December 14, 2024 at the age of 61.
Johnson held posts at Importel, Gemsen and Erikson as well as Pioneer, Trends Electronics, B&B Electronics and Audio Frog.
Some industry members have known Johnson since their early twenties. They spoke of his kindness, humor and passion for the industry.
“Aaron Johnson was not just one of my best friends, he was an incredible person, a devoted father, and a loving husband to his wife,” said Dave Oakley of Andre’s Electronics Experts. “His infectious smile, funny giggle and passion for car audio were truly remarkable. For over three decades, we worked together in retail and with ALJ Marketing. It’s impossible to overstate the impact Aaron had on so many lives. Aaron and I spent countless evenings discussing audio over dinner and drinks, always laughing together. I’ll miss Aaron, we will all miss him.”
Keith McCumber of SoundsGood Auto, Canada said, “My friend Aaron Johnson was a cult of personality when it came to repping his wares. He would methodically offer features and benefits of the brand of products that he brought with him so that we could get just as excited as he was about his new idea or product. Aaron was a very private person in his personal life, but he would always take the time to smile and ask you “How you are doing?”
“Aaron was one of the kindest people you could ever meet and was always willing to help anyone out utilizing his vast knowledge in all thing’s audio, electronics and Volkswagens,” said Jason Sterns of August Customs, BC Canada. “He sold me my first subwoofer back when he was in retail, and I never stopped purchasing from him since he truly fueled my passion for car audio. We will do our best to pass forward all the knowledge he has given us over so many years.”
Distributor Gemsen’s Dave Singh said, “Aaron was not the sales rep that could sell ice to Eskimos, he would present ideas to you over time. Wearing you down with his quirkiness and infectious smile. He would always think about what he would say to you; it was always genuine questions about your day and your thoughts about the products he represented. I miss the long talks about our industry, his insights and his passion for car audio.”
On Facebook, there are countless stories about Aaron being the first sales rep they ever met or “It’s okay to be a little geeky when it comes to your passions.” His gentle conversations, his giggly laugh and his wild hair will be truly missed.
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Rest in peace Aaron!
‘AJ’ was a true ‘one-off’ in the Canadian audio realm and will be missed by so many, in the BC area in particular. I had the real pleasure to work with him over the past several years, and he was always incredibly friendly, helpful, knowledgeable and passionate about audio (and his VW’s). He left an indelible mark on so many. Gone far too soon.