Lillian Marie Johnson's Obituary
Lillian (“Lill”) Marie Johnson (nee’ Christiansen), age 94, of Spring Lake went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. She passed away at home surrounded by her family and prayer. She was born January 29, 1932, in Muskegon, MI to Henry and Catherine (Carlsen) Christiansen, immigrants from Denmark. She was raised on a 40-acre farm and attended school in the Hile School District. She would spend many beloved weekends with her fellow community of Danes affectionately called the “Ludington Gang” and enjoyed many summers at Maranatha. Lillian married her husband of 60 years, Charles R Johnson, Sr. on June 7, 1952, in Grand Haven. Together they would raise 6 children. Lillian spent her life with the cherished job of raising her family. She lived a life rooted in faith, compassion, and service to others. Her trust in God guided every step and her gentle spirit brought comfort to many. She was a member of Grand Haven Gospel Chapel. Later, she would become a devoted member of Nortonville Gospel Chapel, where she sang in the choir, participated in Women’s Mission Circle, often hosted Bible study, and volunteered wherever there was a need in the church. Lillian had the unique talent of playing the piano and organ by ear. She said it was a gift from the Lord and loved to play. She loved family gatherings and sharing her faith. Her heart’s desire was to see people put their faith in Christ. Her gift of storytelling about the many childhood memories on the farm with her brothers were treasured and will be missed. Lillian is lovingly remembered and survived by her children Charles (Cindy) Johnson, Jr., Sally (Roy) Bennink, Dena (Tim) Hitsman, and Darla (Marc) Baird; 9 grandchildren, Scott (Jaleen) Rodgers, Julie (Scott) Tardani, Kristyn (Justin) Haverkamp, Travis Bennink, Brenton (Zulariam) Bennink, Kaycee (Mariano) Galante-Hitsman, Anthony (Joanie) Hitsman, River Baird, and Rowan Baird; 14 great grandchildren, and 4 great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Johnson, Sr. on September 24, 2012, two daughters, Cathy Sue Johnson on October 11, 1988, and Diane Marie Johnson-Wessel on January 10, 2025, her five brothers; Earl Christiansen, Clay Christiansen, Harry Christiansen, Vernon Christiansen, and Henry Christiansen, and her sister, Clara. A Memorial service for Lillian will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Nortonville Gospel Chapel in Spring Lake with Assistant Pastor Josh Puett and Pastor Joe O’Neill officiating. (14528 Leonard Road) Luncheon to follow. Visitation one hour prior to service 10am-11am Thursday at Nortonville Gospel Chapel. Memorial Contributions may be directed to Nortonville Gospel Chapel or Hospice of Holland. Interment will be in Spring Lake Cemetery at 1:30pm. Arrangements entrusted to The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at https://www.systemafh.com "Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure." - Unknown
What’s your fondest memory of Lillian?
What’s a lesson you learned from Lillian?
Share a story where Lillian's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Lillian you’ll never forget.
How did Lillian make you smile?
