Robert Johnson

Robert "Bob" Allen Johnson, born October 7, 1949, ran-yes, ran!-into the arms of Jesus on January 3, 2025, surrounded by love from his family and friends after battling significant health issues.

To know Bob was to be in the company of one of the funniest guys around. His sense of humor-a gift inherited from his father-is a defining characteristic we will remember for years to come. A laugh with Bob brought joy to the rest of your day.

To know Bob was also to be loved by him deeply and fiercely. Bob loved his people wholeheartedly. He cared deeply for his friends, siblings, kids, and grandkids, but most importantly, he loved Jesus with all his heart. He made it abundantly clear that he was ready to spend eternity with his Savior as he bravely entered the gates of heaven.

Fondly known as Bob, Bobby, Stitch, Dad, Papa Bob, and Grandpa Bob, he was born in Chicago and grew up in Pennsylvania and several Chicagoland suburbs, including Carpentersville, where he resided for most of his life. He graduated from Dundee High School in 1968. He served in the Army during the Vietnam War from 1970-1971 as a Specialist E5, clearing helicopter landing zones in the field. After his heroic service, he married and was blessed with his two wonderful children, Tyler and Briana. Bob loved being a dad and grandpa, and his face lit up any time he shared stories about his kids and their families.

Bob was many things in his life and had numerous passions. He worked at the Arlington Race Track as a hot walker, served as a train conductor for Metra, and was a skilled leather crafter who handmade leather accessories to sell at trade shows. Of course, he was also a Harley enthusiast.

In May of 2014, Bob was in a tragic motorcycle accident during a church cross-country ride that left him paralyzed and dependent on a wheelchair. Though his loved ones feared they might lose him then, his perseverance and strength allowed him to fight hard to keep living. This unwavering determination gave him the courage to never lose sight of the story God was writing through him.

Bob found new passions after his accident, including playing games with his family and friends, giving rides to his grandkids (and everyone else's kids) on his wheelchair, playing online poker, and participating in fantasy sports. Perhaps his greatest passion became serving at Stateline Church, where his son Tyler pastors. He served faithfully on the Host Team and the Prayer Team. Almost every Sunday morning for nearly eight years, you could find Bob at the front door, ready to greet you with a smile.

He leaves behind a family that loved him deeply, including his sister Linda (Corky) White; brother Howard Johnson; daughter Briana (Steve) Engmann; son Tyler (Randi) Johnson. His former wife and mother to his children, Kim Henriksen; and grandchildren Kayla, Josiah, and Amaya Engmann, as well as Reid and Chase Johnson. He is joined in heaven by his parents, Vernon and Marion Johnson, along with many beloved aunts and uncles.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Hines VA Medical Center in Chicago for the exceptional care Bob received over the 10+ years following his accident.

Most importantly, the family is eternally grateful to Gary Schweinert-Bob's best friend and caregiver-who so selflessly dedicated the past 10 years to serving and caring for Bob. Without you, Gary, we would not have the cherished memories we hold so dear today. We are forever grateful for your love and support. You are, and forever will be, a part of our family.

A Celebration of Life and Love will be held at Stateline Church, 601 N Perryville, Rockford, IL, on Saturday, January 18. An open house will take place from 12-3 p.m., followed by a remembrance service at 3 p.m. Dress comfortably and come ready to celebrate Bob, now fully healed and walking with Jesus!

In lieu of flowers, Bob's family would love for you to consider donating to Stateline Church's Benevolence Fund. Stateline was Bob's home church, where he played a pivotal role on the Prayer Team. Stateline Church values generosity deeply and uses the Benevolence Fund to assist those in need within the community. Donations can be made at https://www.stateline.church/give/.

For those unable to attend in person, Bob's remembrance service will also be available to stream at https://www.stateline.church/BobJohnson/.

Bob's family looks forward to celebrating his incredible life with all who loved him. Thank you for keeping Bob and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this time.