Michael James Johnson

Michael James Johnson

Philadelphia, PA

Michael James Johnson, of Philadelphia, PA passed away on Tuesday, December 31, 2013. Born on February 4, 1946 in Pennsgrove, NJ, he was the son of the late Helen M. Fonto and John T. Johnson. Of the many talents that Mike possessed, he excelled in diving where he was a Delaware state champion. At the same time he was involved in baseball leagues in Pennsgrove, NJ, and Newark, DE where he was known for his lightning speed and hard hitting which landed him a position with the semiprofessional Delaware Clippers team. At 15, Mike began playing pool which involved him in competing in tournaments around the country and led to a life-long passion for the game.

In 1975, Mike joined the Vision Quest family and during this time was a mentor, friend, co-worker, and leader to many troubled youth. He ran programs from Mt. Lemon, Tucson, Elfrida, Colorado Springs, Franklin, South Mountain, Embreeville, and Oklahoma. In 1996, Mike took his wagon train The Silver Buffalo from Yeehaw Junction, FL to Coatesville, PA then on to Ohio, then Oklahoma to finish in Uvalde, TX. Of special note was that during the entire year on the Silver Buffalo despite traveling so close to their homes in Philadelphia, not one youth attempted to abscond. On the Vision Quest wagon train, crisscrossing the country, he taught youth how to build confidence, be responsible, and make the most of their lives. He lived the Vision Quest mantra by keeping those in his life at the center of his circle. He was a remarkable man with a big personality that was indelible and contagious to those he met. In the 25 years as a leader at Vision Quest, he touched numerous lives and made a difference for so many. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him. Prior to Vision Quest, Mike was a skilled barber working with his friend Johnny Walker. He also managed nightclubs in the State of Delaware.

Mike is survived by his wife, Melanie Benaquis Johnson; his sister, Diane Johnson; his children, Laurie Kreider, Stephanie Tolson, and Jake Johnson; his grandchildren: Riley Hurley, Taylor Hurley, Kaitlynn Kreider, Madison Tolson, and Reagan Tolson, Parker Johnson, Mikey Johnson, and Connor Johnson. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Johnson in July of 2013.

A Memorial Service will be held at Faries Funeral Home, 29 S. Main St., Smyrna, DE on Sunday, January 12, 2014. Visitation from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Memorial service beginning at 2:00 p.m. Condolence letters may be sent by visiting www.fariesfuneralhome.com.