Gayle Dwight Johnson

Gayle Dwight Johnson Battle Creek Gayle Dwight Johnson, age 73, died Saturday morning, April 18, 2009, at his residence. Gayle was born on July 15, 1935 in Calico Rock, AR and was the son of Leonard D. and Eula B. (Ball) Johnson. He graduated from Santa Monica (CA) City College with a Certificate in Electronic Engineering and Trouble Shooting. Before returning to Battle Creek, he was employed by Genisco Technology Corporation, as an engineer in the Calibration Lab. Also, he was a trouble shooter for the Air Craft and Space Programs and finally was appointed Chief of Security for the company's files and records. Gayle concluded his employment in 1993 as the Regional Manager for Southwestern Michigan at the Guardian Guard Security and Alarm Systems after 18 years of faithful service. He was employed by Michigan Works until illness forced him to finally retire. Gayle was a National Rifle Association Certified Firearms Instructor and conducted classes in safety and the proper use of firearms. He was the instructor and recertified armed guards for Guardian. Gayle was an associate member of the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge #121; the Calhoun County Police Pistol Club, of which he served as President for 8 years and a member of the Police Community Relations Committee from 1984 thru 1988, of which he served as Vice Chairman for 2 years. Gayle was active in the Methodist Men's Club and the Usher Club. Also, he served on the Advisory Board for the Board of Directors of the Venice (CA) United Methodist Church. Gayle served as a Den Master for the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts for 3 years. Gayle enjoyed hunting, competitive shooting, reloading his own ammunition, working on guns, making holsters, designing and collecting knives, reading and music. On December 29, 1956 in Battle Creek, Gayle was united in marriage to the former, Mildred M. "Millie" Finney, who preceded him in death on April 23, 2007. Surviving are his daughter: Teresa M. (Kevin) Reinhart of Marshall, MI; three grandchildren: Karissa, Brianna and Christian Kalisz; his mother: Eula B. Hicks of Battle Creek; his sister: Sylvia E. (Ron) Pease of Scotts, MI; and by his brother: Cliffton "Dale" Johnson of Abilene, TX. He was preceded in death by his father, Leonard in 1953; his stepfather: Ershel Hicks in 1967; his son: Jerry D. Johnson on June 25, 1991; and by two brothers: Narland D. and James L. Johnson. As per Gayle's request, private, family entombment between his beloved wife and son will take place at Memorial Park Cemetery, Battle Creek. There will be no visitation. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Gayle's honor may be made to the Cancer Care Center-Medication Fund, 300 North Avenue, Battle Creek, MI 49017. The Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home, Battle Creek is in charge of all the arrangements. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com