Merlin C. Johnson's Obituary
Mr. Merlin C. Johnson, age 93, passed away Saturday, June 7, 2014 at Heartwood Lodge. He was born on November 6, 1920 in Custer, MI to Ernest and Nellie (Reene) Johnson, and resided in the Muskegon area since 1946. Mr. Johnson was a Veteran of the U.S. Army, serving his country in WWII and earning 5 Bronze Battle Stars, and a Bronze Star Medal for good conduct in the infantry. He was the owner and operator of Johnson Plumbing for 62 years, before retiring in 2007. Mr. Johnson was a member of Samuel Lutheran Church, where he served on the church council, and belonged to the Men’s Society. He loved to fish, read, travel and spend time with his children and grandchildren. On January 4, 1946, he married the former Marian Rogalke and together celebrated 68 years of marriage. SURVIVORS include his wife, Marian; 2 children, James (Jane) Johnson of Norton Shores, Jean O’Hara of Beverly, MA; 6 grandchildren, Jennifer (Ben) Kanaar, Andrew Johnson, Kristen Johnson, Scott (Jamie) O’Hara, Ryan (Katarina) O’Hara and Kelly O’Hara; 3 great grandchildren, Landon, Violet, and Sandra; sister, Geraldine Schultz of Ludington; and several nieces and nephews. Mr. Johnson was preceded in death by his brother, Leonard Johnson. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be 11 AM Tuesday at Samuel Lutheran Church with Pastor Marcy Miller officiating. VISITATION with the family will be 1 hour prior to the service, from 10-11AM. Burial will take place in Norton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Samuel Lutheran Church Memorial Fund will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com. Arrangements by Sytsema Funeral Homes, Inc. The Walburn Chapel. 1547 W. Sherman Blvd. (231) 759-8565.
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