"My condolences to George's family. My apologies for just learning of his passing. In the mid 1960's, I was an FBI Agent stationed in Marquette. George and I share many law enforcement stories and remained good friends after I moved from the area. We enjoyed hunting trips together. I will miss him and continue to remember him fondly. Bob Rangeley"
In loving memory of
GEORGE G. JOHNSON
November 19, 1930 - May 18, 2009
George G. Johnson, 78, entered eternal life Monday afternoon, May 19, 2009 at his home in Big Bay.
George was born on November 19, 1930 in Munising, Michigan to Axel and Thelma Johnson. He graduated from Graveraet High School and then went on to attend the Police School at Michigan State University finishing second in his class. His career as a Marquette patrolman started Feb. 19, 1955. From 1956 to 1961 he served as a motorcycle officer. In 1961 he was promoted to detective, a position he held for just two years before he was promoted to police chief, a position he held with dignity for 32 years. Prior to working for the City Police Department, Chief Johnson served for six years in the United States Navy.
George was elected to the National Police Officers Hall of Fame in Florida in 1967 as U.P. Officer of the year. He also gained recognition by the Executive Board of the International Police Managers Association as one of the top Chief Administrators in the United States and in 1993 was selected by his peers as the city Employee of the Year.
As Chief of Police, he had been active in many state and regional law enforcement associations and had received numerous recognitions including: charter member of the Michigan Law Enforcement Officers Training Council, Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police, State Traffic Council, Northern Michigan University Police Advisory Council Chairman, charter member of the Marquette County Law Enforcement Officers Association.
His professional activities included: board member of the Marquette County Historical Museum, charter member of the McClintock Darter Dace Committee, member of the Shiras Institute Board of Directors, Maritime Museum Committee member, Chairman of the Marquette County Administrators Association, Chairman for two years of the U.P. Chiefs Association, member of the Dean of Students Advisory Board, charter member of the Veteran Memorial Committee and numerous other state and local committees.
George was especially proud of his involvement with the Pigs-n-Heat Fire Victims Relief Fund and its annual charity hockey game. His love of community was evidenced by his commitment to many projects and causes. He had a great sense of humor and possessed a kind and generous heart.
George was an avid outdoorsman and sports enthusiast, involved in many youth sports teams including baseball, football and hockey. He also served as a past Board of Directors member for the Marquette Iron Rangers hockey team.
George is survived by his wife Gloria (Gina) Johnson of Big Bay, his five children, Elizabeth Sonderegger (John) and Roger Johnson (Carol) of Marquette, Curtis Johnson (Heidi) of Scottsdale, Arizona, Susan McCabe (Mark) of Traverse City and Renee Re (Anthony) of San Antonio, Texas, his 13 grandchildren and his 2 step-children, Jeffery Munro and Kelly-Sue Diedrich of Marquette; sisters Marguerite (Peggy) VanOverloop of Marquette and Beverly Martin (Robert) of Phoenix, Arizona.
George was preceded in death by his parents, Axel and Thelma Johnson; his brother James Johnson and a grandson, Eric Diedrich.
Visitation will be on Thursday from noon until 2 p.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2 p.m. in the church with the Rev. Michael Steber officiating. Burial will take place in the Holy Cross Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Mr. Johnson's sons, Roger and Curt Johnson; also Mike Angeli, Gordon Warchock, Tom Belt, Sal Sarvello, Marv Gauthier and Tom Knapp.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Mr. Johnson's memory to the Pigs -n- Heat Fire Victims Relief Fund, 300 W. Baraga Ave., Marquette, MI 49855 or to the George G. Johnson Criminal Justice Scholarship c/o NMU Foundation, 1401 Presque Isle Ave., Marquette, MI 49855.
Tributes
"To Liz, Roger and family: So sorry to hear about your Fathers passing. Over the years I came to believe he was a kind man and not what we perceived of him due to wearing the Badge. When I emailed my Cousin Jojo he mentioned that he was just thinking of George and was needing to stop in and see him. Apparantly, George was a close friend and colleague of his Fathers Joseph Johnson (RIP) who was an assistant fire chief in Mqt. In fact, George made most of the arrangements for my Uncles final send off. I'm sure your Fathers was even more elaborate. There are far more people thinking kind thoughts then you'll ever know!"
"I am so sorry to hear of uncle George's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Robert and Gloria Martin"
"To Renee, Curt, Sue and all the family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. We will never forget how good he was to Uncle Jack, and just what a good man he was. All best to you."
"To all family and friends of Chief Johnson, I am saddened to hear of George's passing. I remember him as a great friend, mentor, and colleague. He did much to help in development of E.M.S. and the 911 System in Marquette County and the U.P. during the 70's and 80's. His advice and support were extremely helpful, as was his friendly and cheerful manner. He will be missed. Fred Leopold Former E.M.S. Director Marquette General Hospital"
"To the family of George Johnson, We extend our most sincere sentiments of sympathy at this time. Though we just met George last summer at his granddaughter's wedding we know he was a man who loved life, his family and God. It is clear he made the world a better place. We are all blessed by his contributions. May your memories and your faith sustain you and bring you peace."
"To the Johnson Family Many lives were made a little bit better by knowing and working with George. He will be missed. Paul"
"Gina, Our thoughts and prayers are will you. Paul and Nancy O'Neill"
"George Johnson was a good man, excellent Chief and a good friend. His passing leaves sadness in our hearts. Kathy & Gene Sweeney"
"Dear Gina, George was a true hero to many and a wonderful role model to your family. We hope the years of memories you shared will help ease the pain of your loss. Please know our thoughts are with you. Carol & Gerry Pinkos"
"Dear Roger & Family, I am so sorry to hear of your father's passing. I know how painful and difficult it is to lose someone you love. Cherish the wonderful memories you have as they are a GIFT from your dad. I pray they bring you comfort during this most difficult time. Please know you are all in the thoughts and prayers of many. God Bless you all"
"To the Johnson family, My thoughts and prayers are with you all."
"Our thoughts and prayers are with you all on your loss. Your Dad will be remembered in many ways, as a Father, a Husband, Grandfather, Friend, Co-Worker and as an honest, sincere good guy. I know my Dad and Mom (Al and Irene Denton) had enjoyed the friendship they shared over the years in law enforcement and into retirement. May all of your memories and stories you share be fond. Bless You, Tom and Janet Denton"
"Gina and family We were so saddened to hear of your loss. George will be missed by many. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God bless you."
"To the family of George Johnson, The tennis group of Big Bay sends thoughts and prayers for you during this sad time. Years ago, George generously donated a beautiful trophy for our annual tournament which will be enjoyed for many more years to come. We have great such memories of George. Our prayers are with you."
"I am unable to be there in person but my thoughts & prayers are coming your way. You always remember those unique & special people in your life and that is why I remember "George". As a young Sheriff's Deputy in Marquette, he taught me many lessons on managing people and balance within an organization. He help me in becoming a Chief of Police and surviving the challenges of the position. I've now been a Chief for twenty-five years, first in Mackinaw City and now St. Johns. I do not know that I can last his 32 years as Chief but my memories of him will last a lifetime! Till we meet again George - Thanks for your help. Michael C. Madden Chief of Police City of St. Johns, MI"
"Gina and Family, My heart is saddened by your loss.George was a life member of the Marquette Elks Lodge and will be missed. As we say: The Faults of our members we write upon the sand; their virtues upon the tablets of love and memory. All of you will be in our thoughts and prayers. Lucy Dewitt PER Marquette Elks Lodge 405"
"My assignment with the Upper Peninsula Substance Enforcement Team was positively impacted by George during his time as Chief of Police in Marquette. His assistance and mentoring will always be appreciated."
"Gina and family: I send my heartfelt sympathy to you on hearing of George's passing. You were such good friends to my parents (Kay and Dave Freeman) and I know you shared good times up on Lake Independence. I hope those memories give you all comfort and peace, now and in the future."
"Gina so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prays are with you. Jim & Wanda"
"Dear Gina and Family: I am so sorry to hear of Georges passing and only pray for GOD to be with all of you a this very difficult time. George was a wonderful man and remember to keep all the wonderful memories in your hearts forever. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for your family. Love, neil"
"Dear Gina ... I have always thought of George with gratitude for his kindness and thoughtfulness to a late-coming member of his extended family. His generous spirit will live on in the memories of his friends. May the prayers of many console you, and accompany George into the presence of his Saviour. Love, Pat Brennan"
"I was deeply saddened in of learning Chief Johnson's passing. He was a friend and mentor during the years of our working together on a variety of projects and associations. His counsel and friendship were greatly appreciated. My condolences to his wife and family. With deepest personal regards, Wayne E. Heikkila Retired Director Escanaba Public Safety"
"Dear Gina and family: I am sorry to hear about George passing. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you."
"My sympathy to all of family. This man loved Marquette and will always be part of my memories of home. All Marquette's Police Chiefs since were/are positively influenced by him are are a further tribute to his dedication to excellence in all that he touched."
"To Gina & Johnson Family: So very sorry to hear about George's passing. We wish you all the best during this most difficult time. Take care, Ellen & Jeff Dewitt"
"To the Johnson Family: Sorry we are out of town and unable to be at the funeral mass for George. I have good memories of George, especially when Roger and Kurt played high school basketball. He was a strong and loyal supporter. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Gordy and Kay LeDuc"
"Dear Gina and Family, We were so sorry to hear of George's passing. We have such fond memories of you and George as our neighbors. May you find strength in all your memories of George. All our Love and Prayers. Mary and Joe"
"George Fair Winds and Following Seas Shipmate! Gina Our Hearts and thoughts are with you."
"My sincere sympathy to Gina & family. Chief Johnson will be missed. As an employee of MPD, Chief was a positive influence in my life. My thoughts and prayers are with you."
"Dear Gina-So very sorry to hear of Georges passing. Sending you our prayers and thoughts. Rock and Jean"
"To Gina and the Johnson family:: We are deeply sorrowed to hear of the passing of George. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and may God bless you all--"