The memorial for Queer icon and legendary downtown performer Dean Johnson at the Rapture Cafe brought together many seminal figures from the early days of the Pyramid and New York nightlife. A quick scan of the crowd revealed Johnny Dynell, Chi Chi Valenti, John Epperson, Hapi Phace, Steven Tashjian, John Epperson, Frank Decaro and many, many more who came out in tribute of the 6'6" Johnson who died under mysterious circumstances in Washington. While the tabloids continue to speculate on the cause of his death, this much seems clear and weird: Dean died in the same apartment where another man died the week before. Drugs, sex for money, Viagra, Saudis, the White House have all been mentioned in connection with the case that the Washington, D.C. police are still investigating. Mothernyc is a great resource of tributes and stories about Dean Johnson. Here's a messaqge posted there from his sister:

"To all of Dean's friends and family in NY -
My name is Beth and I am Dean's sister. I understand your confusion and hunger for information surrounding Dean's death. His death is currently under investigation and I don't feel comfortable discussing the details of his case until the conclusion of that investigation....but rest assured that they do know who Dean was with and that I have every confidence in the DC Det. investing the case. As soon as the case comes to a conclusion, which I am told will be soon ( although not sure what soon is in cop time....) I wil reveal every detail I know. Hang in there.
Dean has been cremated and will be layed to rest next to his mother in Maine soon. They loved each other very much and I know they are together now somewhere.
I can not express the depth of loss I feel. But to hear your stories and see your pics is a comfort. Keep posting the pics, I love them. Thanks to all of you for loving Dean so much. He would love the buzz going on about him now. :-)
With much love and gratitude....
Beth Johnson "