Obituary of Robert E. Johnson

Robert E. Johnson, 85, of Niles, went to be with his Lord, on Sunday, September 4, 2016 at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph, Michigan, following an illness. He was born on July 27, 1931 in Niles to the late Kenneth and Helen (Kane) Johnson. Robert attended Niles Schools and was known for his abilities playing both softball and football. He continued playing softball locally for many years where he was a fantastic pitcher. Robert was a man of great faith and a charter member of Emmanuel Baptist Bible Church in Niles. Robert was passionate about helping in any capacity he could and took great pride in mowing and keeping up with the maintenance around the church. Robert also had a deep love and devotion to his family, especially his grandchildren. On August 3, 1985 Robert married Vi L. Yoder at a ceremony in Niles. He is preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Shirley Gowen. Robert is survived by his wife, Vi Johnson of Niles, his children; Larry (Theresa) Johnson of South Carolina, Vicky Johnson of Buchanan, Wanda Wogoman of Niles and Bruce (Debbie) Johnson of South Bend, six grandchildren, a host of great-grandchildren, a sister, Gloria Bennett of South Bend, two brothers, Ron (Sallie) Johnson of Niles and Jim (Debbie) Johnson of Dowagiac as well as two "adopted daughters" he considered his family, Deb Bloch and Beth Reum. Funeral services to honor Robert will be held on Thursday, September 8, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at Emmanuel Baptist Bible Church in Niles with Pastor Brad Lomax officiating. A time of visitation will begin one hour prior. Committal services will follow at Silverbrook Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Robert's memory to Emmanuel Baptist Bible Church, 216 Beeson Road, Niles, Michigan 49120.