Kurt Douglas Johnson's Obituary
Kurt Douglas Johnson of Casnovia, MI, passed peacefully surrounded by his loving family on July 29, 2025 at the age of 73. Kurt was born on Christmas Day, 1951, to the late Harold and Edith (Stoken) Johnson of Kent City, MI.
As the youngest of 12 siblings, Kurt lived an adventurous and wild childhood, packed with wonderful memories. He graduated from Kent City High School in 1970, where he met the love of his life, Linda (Thompson) Johnson. The two fell in love quickly and were married in 1972. Together, they raised three incredible sons, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
Kurt dedicated 34 years of his life as the Transportation Director of his alma mater, Kent City Community Schools. Kurt loved serving the school district almost as much as the connections he made with the staff and students while doing so.
Kurt loved to travel with his wife, Linda. Together, they chartered all fifty states and four countries. Kurt was also an avid fan of High School and Big10 football. During their travels, they visited many football stadiums, including fifteen Big10 schools. He was deeply passionate about outdoor recreation, especially hunting, which wasn’t just a pastime, but rather a tradition that he joyfully shared with his sons and grandchildren. Kurt was a dedicated grandfather to his five grandchildren, whom he took incredible pride in. He was extremely present in all their lives and never missed a baseball game, cheer or dance competition, livestock show, or choir performance.
Kurt was preceded in death by his son Brad Johnson; sisters, Lois, Shirley, Beverly “Beaver”, and Nina; brothers Harold, Max, Dale, Jim, and Don; and beloved dog, Pete. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 53 amazing years, Linda (Thompson) Johnson; his sons, Troy (Stacey) Johnson and Ryan (Claire) Johnson; daughter-in-law, Michelle Johnson; as well as his grandchildren, Christian (Maria) Johnson, Nicole (Dakota) Greer, Matthew Johnson, Morgan Johnson, and Lydia Johson; three great grandchildren, Adeline and Dawson Johnson, and Weston Greer; and siblings, Ron (Chris) Johnson and Karen (James) Gerwig.
To know Kurt was to love him. He was incredibly selfless and always looking out for his family, the pride of his life. Kurt always pushed his children and grandchildren to do better and was always their biggest cheerleader. He was known for his engaging stories, hilarious sense of humor, constant teasing, contagious laugh, and loving heart. Kurt will be deeply missed every day; however, we find comfort in knowing his light continues to shine through all the lives he has touched.
2Corinthians 4:16-18 Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
By Kurt’s request, the family will be hosting a party to celebrate his wonderful 73 years. We will share stories, laughter, tears, and love as we reflect on Kurt’s remarkable life, his strength, and the memories he leaves with us. The party will be at The Johnson Farm, 1965 Canada Rd., Casnovia, MI 49318, on the 16th of August 2025 beginning at 5:00pm. All who loved and knew him are welcome. With love, the Johnson family. Arrangements by The Ravenna Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 3570 Thomas St. Ravenna, MI 49451.
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