Gregory James Johnson

May 26, 1972 - May 30, 2025

"GRIEF IS THE PRICE WE PAY FOR LOVE."

Greg Johnson, formerly of Moline Illinois, passed away on May 30 in Cornelius Oregon at age 53. Greg was born in Moline on May 26, 1972 and is survived by parents Jim and Joyce Johnson (Cederberg), sister Jill Wangler (Doug), nephew Mitch, and niece Cali. He also leaves behind many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Greg was one of the happiest children growing up, with a nickname of "Smiley." He graduated from Moline High School in 1990 where he excelled in golf, on varsity for two years. He graduated from Illinois State in 1994, where he was a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) fraternity and formed lasting friendships.

His fluid career and life journey took him to North Dakota, in an IT role, where he met more forever-friends. There were various other stops and jobs in the Midwest before landing in Oregon for the past ten years.

He was a passionate Fighting Illini basketball fan. His alum sister, Jill, fondly remembers countless back-and-forth texting, hootin' and hollering on key games and, of course, the ILL! - INI! exchange.

He had an uncanny memory of the finest details from years long ago. It was a blessing or an embarrassing curse to others, depending on the nature of the recollection.

Greg was caring, funny, and empathetic. He will be remembered for his kindness and love for his family, friends, and animals. His laughter and reflections on the past were gifts to many who knew him. He was very loved.

There will be a private family service at a later date. Family and friends are invited to share memories and express condolences to the family on Greg's Memory Wall at www.legacy.com.

In lieu of flowers or other gestures, if inclined, the family requests donations to the Muncie Mission (1725 S Liberty St, Muncie, IN 47302 * 765-288-9122 * [email protected]) in Greg's name.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Quad-City Times on Jun. 4, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Gregory Johnson

Sponsored by Fuiten, Rose & Hoyt Funeral Home & Crematory - Forest Grove.

12 Entries

Glenda Larson

June 14, 2025

Ohhh my god Jim Joyce Jill I'm so sorry to here this news! Greg was a sweet hearted person. Loved his family. That smile of his was so contagious
It lit up everyone's life. He used that to pick up people when they were down.. He had a sense in him that you could say anything to him with no judgement.He was one of the first people I told I was gay. He just loved me more for coming out. I'm gonna miss him. And i give my condolences to the family in this time of grief. Know he is up there with no pain and smiling down with that big smile of his!

Michelle Lampe Wadkins

June 7, 2025

I knew Greg from MHS. We graduated together and have been fb friends, watching him and his life. Greg was such an amazing guy in high school. I am so sorry to hear of his passing.

Harlo & Dixie Westlin

June 7, 2025

Joyce, Jim and family. We are so sorry to hear about the passing of your son and have you in our thoughts.

Pat Hall

June 4, 2025

Oh my- so very sad to hear this!! Greg was in a playgroup from age 3-5 with my son and 2 girls. These kids became good friends and we moms have stayed friends forever!!
Greg was always inquisitive-smart - polite & oh that smile!! My heart & prayers to Jim & Joyce & Jill & family. Hold on to all those precious Greg memories !!

Janice Boyd

June 4, 2025

My memories of Greg are in his preschool days. He was in a small playgroup of neighborhood kids with my daughter. He was such a sweet and kind little boy with a very big smile. I can still see him riding his big wheel at full speed ahead. Joyce and I enjoyed many fun days with the kids at Rocket Park and at the Black Hawk tennis courts. I will always have so many wonderful memories of those days.

Julie maihack

June 4, 2025

The best smile, infectious laugh, and giver of amazing hugs! Greg has left an impression on my heart since ISU! I will forever be grateful for his friendship! My sincerest sympathies to his family.

Connie Ericson

June 4, 2025

Greg was so sweet. He was always one of the first to tell me happy birthday on Facebook. We shared a love of animals, and he often "liked" animal stories or memes that I posted. I enjoyed every visit we ever had with him, and I will miss him. My sincere condolences, Aunt Joyce, Uncle Jim, and Jill.

Rodney Mccraw

June 4, 2025

I am so sorry to hear this. I graduated witghGreg and was always a good guy and friend. Prayers goes out to the family and friends.

Larry and Jill Carr

June 4, 2025

We are sorry for your loss. Thinking of all of you.

Mike Porter

June 4, 2025

This breaks my heart. Greg was a good friend of mine in high school and roommate for two years at ISU. We lost touch over the years, but reconnected a few years ago and stayed in touch regularly since then. The comment about his uncanny memory recall brought a smile through the tears, because he was very good about texting me many memories from those days. I'm going to miss that back and forth. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. He will be dearly missed by all those that knew him.

Tammy " McVey" Bishop

June 4, 2025

I´m very sorry for your loss. Greg was a long time friend- since kindergarten. I have countless memories of him that I will cherish forever! He was one of a kind and I loved him so. May you find peace and comfort during this difficult time. Sending you love and hugs!
Rest in peace "Gorgus- Turtle Top loves you forever"

Steve De Pooter

June 4, 2025

Greg was a great childhood friend whom I share many fond memories building forts in the woods, playing basketball outside his house with the Earl brothers, and going out late at night to catch nightcrawler worms that seemed like a foot long! He will be greatly missed.. It hurts my heart to lose him even though we weren´t close later in life. My deepest heartfelt sympathy to the entire Johnson family.

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