Robert "Bob" Johnson, 70, of Grand Haven, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on Friday, December 6. Bob courageously battled cancer for over a year, and as he said, "I've lost the battle but won the war." Bob was at peace knowing that in the end, because of his relationship with his Savior, Jesus Christ, that he would be in paradise. His unshakeable faith, bright personality, and compassionate heart made a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Bob is survived by his son, Sean Johnson and wife Keola; his daughter, Lauren Vanderkaay and husband Christian; and grandsons Ian and Graham Vanderkaay. Bob also leaves behind his sisters Kristine (Dave) Huss, K.J. (Jim) Swearingen, Becky (Fred) Miller, brother Richard (Jenny) Johnson, and his stepmother, Evelyn Johnson. There are many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins who were so special to him. He was preceded in death by his mother, Helen "Bunny" Johnson and his father, Richard "Dick" Johnson.
Bob spent his career as a Graphic Designer/Artist. He was passionate about many things, especially his family, his dog "Bean," biking, fishing, cooking, his church, and the OSU Buckeyes. He was a dedicated servant at A.A., where he recently celebrated 10 years of recovery. Bob was always looking for ways to serve God and others.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Monday, December 16, 3 p.m., at All Shores Church in Spring Lake, Michigan. A reception will follow at the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Children's Cancer Research Fund. Bob rode for the "Great Cycle Challenge" to raise money for Children's Cancer Research each September for the past 6 years. He rode almost 3,000 miles and had raised over $12,000. Here is the link to donate: https://childrenscancer.org/ There is an option called "Dedicate my Donation" and please put Bob's name and any messages there.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
Michael and Cheryl Tague
December 17, 2024
Our sympathy and prayers for Bob's family. Cheryl and I knew Bob for close to 30 years. Always a smile on his face. Loved to entertain and a wonderful cook. Introduced me to a lot of great music on CDs. Going to miss him.
Michael Fry
December 14, 2024
Bob was a stout friend when Carol and I were in Grand Haven 1988-99 at FirstPres. His humor and friendship encouraged me greatly as a pastor. I never knew what was going to come up when I met with Bob, but it was always good! Creative and faithful; we all need to fulfill his legacy! Advent Blessings all over y'all! Mike, Bob's friend and bro! (The Rev. Dr. Michael L. Fry)
Gary Katt
December 13, 2024
I enjoyed being with Bob at a meeting on Sunday night less then two weeks before he passed. He was laughing and joking and looked healthy. He looked great with his new buzz cut. I´m going to miss his kind heart and big smile!
Anne S
December 11, 2024
Bob has always been very special to me. I'll always remember him with a smile. I'm comforted to know he is not in pain any longer and smiling.
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more