Walter B. Campbell

Walter Bruce Campbell, 91 of Johannesburg, passed away at home on Friday, August 16, 2024.

Born in Johannesburg, Michigan on September 28, 1932, he was the son of Robert Bruce and Albertha Fay (Ruesch) Campbell. Walt was a lifelong Johannesburg resident.

Walt dedicated his life to farming, something he shared with his family, a tradition now carried on by his sons. In earlier years he also worked at Roby Wood Products and at the Montmorency County Road Commission.

On May 26, 1956, Walt and Leona Ann Joslin were married at the Hetherton Reformed Presbyterian Church. They spent their life together on their Johannesburg farm where they raised their six children. Leona preceded Walt in death on March 2, 2006.

Walt was a dedicated, hardworking husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and farmer, traits he passed along to his family. Though he had little spare time, he will be remembered for his willingness to help his neighbors and fellow farmers. Even with his dedication to his work, he was known to be a bit mischievous with a good sense of humor. Walt especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, who will fondly remember their “papa blue”, a reference to his trademark blue work shirt and pants.

In addition to his wife, Leona, he was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Albertha; sons, Lyle in 1965, and Leonard in 2021; a brother, Bobby; and sisters, Ina Jean Fox and Lila Keskine.

He is survived by his daughter, Lisa (Daniel) Basel of Atlanta; his sons, Larry (Renee) Campbell, Lane (Laurie Butterfield) Campbell, and Linc (Merisa) Campbell all of Johannesburg; a daughter-in-law, Frances Campbell of Johannesburg; 13 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; a sister, Leah Welch of Johannesburg; a sister-in-law, Fay (Joslin) King of Cle Elum, WA; several nieces and nephews; and his longtime close friend, Kathy Biehl. 

A celebration of Walt’s life will be held at 1:00 PM Sunday, August 25, 2024, at the Charlton Township Hall, 10775 Rowan Avenue, in Johannesburg. Time to visit with the family will begin at 12:00 noon and a luncheon will immediately follow the service.

Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions in his memory to T.A.C.K.L.E. van project through Otsego County United Way, 116 E. 5th St., Gaylord, MI 49735.  Please note the donation is specifically for T.A.C.K.L.E. van in memory of Mr. Campbell.

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