Nolan Verner Johnson, age 81, passed away peacefully Saturday afternoon, September 23, 2017, at his home in Escanaba, following a courageous battle with cancer.
Nolan was born August 8, 1936, in Escanaba, the son of Verner and Charlotte (Caswell) Johnson. He was raised in Brampton and was a 1955 graduate of Gladstone High School.
Following high school, Nolan gained employment as a welder at Mead Paper Corporation. He married the former Barbara Johnson on August 16, 1958 before being drafted into the United States Army where he served from November of 1959 until his honorable discharge in February of 1962.
Following his discharge, Nolan returned home and continued to work for Mead Paper until his retirement in 1999. Nolan and Barb made their home and raised their family in Brampton. Upon Nolan’s retirement, the couple moved to Gooseneck Lake where they resided until recently moving to Escanaba. Barb and Nolan had 59 wonderful years of marriage together.
Nolan loved to be surrounded by his family and grandchildren. He could fix almost anything and made many lasting memories throughout the years. Nolan was a member of the United Paper Workers Union #21, Mead Rod and Gun Club and former member of the Nahma Golf Course. His hobbies included golfing, hunting, fishing and spending time at camp with his family.
In addition to his loving wife, Barbara, Nolan is survived by:
Son: Robert (Kelly) Johnson of Green Bay, WI
Daughter: Jean (Daniel) Leach of Pickford, MI
Sister: Geri (Charlie) George of Gladstone, MI
Grandchildren: Isaac, Elijah and Josiah Leach all of Pickford, MI and
Zachary and Emma Johnson both of Green Bay, WI Also surviving is Nolan’s special nephew, Jeff (Tammy) George of Gladstone, MI and special niece, Kelly (Dave) Hartner of Beaverton, MI.
Nolan was preceded in death by his parents, Verner and Charlotte.
Funeral services for Nolan will be held at the convenience of his family. Nolan will be laid to rest in the Gardens of Rest Cemetery in Wells. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting with arrangements. Memorial contributions may be directed to OSF Hospice or Delta County Cancer Alliance. 
Allan Blahnik - Escanaba, Mi
Just a few words to Barb and the family. I had the privilege of knowing and working with him at the paper mill for many years until his retirement. Visits to his camp and to his home will forever be a great memory. He was wonderful man and will be missed by all who him.
May he rest in peace with the Lord,
Please, can you call or email me when you decide to have services or when he will be laid to rest, thank you. -Allan and Mary 789-4138
Ed Haga - Dewey, AZ
A dear friend has gone on. Buddy’s since 5th grade at Kipling school. Nolan was one of the nicest guys I have known and I’m privileged to have had him as one of my best friends. Regards to BJ and family at this time of loss.
Don and Naomi Austrew - Manistique, MI
Nolan and Barb were great neighbors on Gooseneck Lake. When Nolan and Barb moved to the lake, Nolan jumped right into helping make Gooseneck-Camp 7 Lakes a great community in which to live by helping neighbors with special projects, attending the association meetings and being drafted into spearheading the community road commission {after Vern (& Phyllis) Popour moved to Gwinn}. He was dedicated, checking the access roads for holes that needed filling in the spring, grading the roads in summer, trimming the trees along the access roads in the fall, keeping the rural mail boxes cleared of snow in winter. He even used some of his own equipment when the men of the community worked together driving tractor or manning the grading machinery.
Nolan became famous for his friendliness, helpfulness, engaging smile and chuckle–and his bean and sausage casserole at the Community Christmas Party, hosted by Jerry and Diane (McPhee) Jyrkila. Nolan’s Ranch Dip Crackers became an instant hit, and he shared the recipe with all—and we have enjoyed them ever since.
Nolan and Barb made a great team and knew how to make things grow—for beauty and for eating—flowers and veggies, cooking and canning the fruits of their labors—and sharing their bounty.
Nolan’s energy and generosity will continue to be an inspiration to those of us privileged to have known him. Nolan made the world a better place while he was on earth his 81 years. Nolan will be remembered as a gentle man and a gentleman.
Don and Naomi Austrew
Gooseneck Lake
william themel - wilson, mi
I am very fortunate to have known and worked with nolan. My condolances to barb and family.