Mr. Francis "Frank" Johnson Jr., age 72, passed away early Thursday morning, Apr 11, 2019 at home surrounded by his family. Frank was born Oct 23, 1946 to Francis and Marjorie (LaRue) Johnson in Muskegon.
He graduated from Whitehall High School in 1964 and then as a member of the Army, served his country in Vietnam. On Sep 8, 1973 he married the former Kathryn "Kathy" Sibley and they set up their home in Egelston Twp.
Frank was employed as a machinist and a supervisor for Challenge Machinery for 25 years but retired from Lift-Tech in 2006.
Frank and Kathryn enjoyed road trips and many cruises. Frank enjoyed leaving the snow for the sunny skies of Florida every winter where he enjoyed listening to music at the beach, riding his bicycle and meeting new people. Locally, he was a member of VFW Post 7729 and in Florida both AMVets and the American Legion.
Frank was always very active in his children's and grandchildren's lives, especially enjoying their sporting activities as both a coach and spectator. He took pride in his lawn and enjoyed being outside, riding his bicycle, motorcycle, hunting or fishing. Frank also served on the board of St. Joseph's Credit Union. Most of all he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
Frank will be missed by Kathryn, his wife of 45 years; his children, Julie (Ed) Greffe, Francis "Franco" (Rachel) Johnson III, and Karla (Gerry) Vanderhorst; grandchildren, Tucker and Avery Greffe, Ellis, Mitchell, and Max Johnson, and Rylee Vanderhorst; siblings, Gregory "Zeke" (Theresa) Johnson, Cheryl (James) Edsall, and Laura (Dan) Thompson; brothers in law, Tom and John (Paula) Sibley; sisters in law, Donna Poliski, Theresa Harger, and Judy Sibley; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Patricia Johnson; brother Noble "Buzz" Johnson; and his brothers in law, Joseph Poliski and Robert Sibley.
A Celebration of Life will be held at noon, Wed, Apr 17, 2019 at VFW Post 7729, 6285 E. Apple Avenue, with a luncheon to follow and visitation one hour prior to the service (11 am - noon). Memorial contributions may be made to Muskegon County Veteran's Affairs at 165 E. Appe Ave, Ste 201 Muskegon, MI 49442.
The family is being served by The Sytsema Chapel, 737 E. Appe Ave.