Johanna Schwencke, Age 74

Johanna Schwencke died on March 30, 2017. She was 74 years old.

Born in Berlin, Germany, Johanna lived in North Merrick, Long Island.

A UFT member for 54 years, she taught physical education at William Cullen Bryant High School in Queens for many years and is remembered as an excellent teacher who successfully mentored many young teachers. She also served as the UFT chapter leader at Bryant.

Johanna began her career at Thomas Jefferson High School in Brooklyn, where she was the Physical Education Department coordinator and coached girls track, basketball and volleyball.

During a career that spanned more than 35 years, Johanna also was active in the Public Schools Athletic League and served as commissioner of both girls handball and girls track and field.

In her younger days, Johanna played field hockey with the New York Field Hockey Association, and she played recreational handball and tennis.

In her spare time, she was a stained-glass artist and collected coins, stamps and other memorabilia.

Friends say Johanna brought an exceptional level of dedication and integrity to everything she did.

She is survived by cousins in Germany and also will be missed by friends and former students.