John L.”JJ” Johnson Sr.

John L.”JJ” Johnson Sr, 72, of 1028 Washington Avenue, Escanaba, passed away Sunday afternoon, December 24, 2017 at Upper Peninsula Health System from complications of a heart attack.

John was born May 7, 1945 in Escanaba, MI the son of Ragnar and Ethyl (Beauchamp) Johnson. He was raised in Escanaba where he attended Holy Name Catholic Schools and graduated from Escanaba High School. Following graduation, he worked for Harley Davidson in Milwaukee before returning to Escanaba to work for Mead Paper Company. He retired from Mead Paper in 2000. John was united in marriage to Rita Bagley on July 26, 2008.

John was a member of the Escanaba Elks and his hobbies included racquetball and downhill skiing. John loved the Christmas season, he took great pride decorating his home and yard. John and Rita enjoyed their travels to Vegas.

In addition to his wife Rita, survivors include:

Son: John Johnson Jr. of San Diego, CA

Step-daughter: Sandra (Wesley) Forrest of Gladstone

Brother: Don (Karen) Johnson of Cosby, TN

Sister: Barb Rick of Morristown, TN

Granddaughter: Kathryn

Step-grandchildren: Anthony, Drake and Parker Forrest

Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.

In addition to his parents, his daughter, Jenel, brothers, Arnold and James Johnson preceded John in death.

John’s family will receive friends on Thursday December 28, 2017 from 3:00 to 6:00 pm at the Skradski Family Funeral Home in Escanaba.