Obituary of George Carl Johnson Jr.

George Carl Johnson Jr., 76, of Niles, passed away on Saturday, May 8, 2021, at his daughter’s home in Byron Center surrounded by his family. He was born on May 27, 1944, in Niles, Michigan, to the late George and Beverly Johnson. George graduated from Niles High School. On December 12, 1964, he married the love of his life, Phyllis Reid, at the Methodist Church in Niles. He worked several different vocations throughout his lifetime. His most fulfilling job was working as a custodian for the Niles School District, he loved interacting with the students and faculty alike. George believed in giving back to the community that raised him. He was a Howard Township volunteer firefighter for thirty-four years, a Howard Township board trustee, and he helped to spearhead the SMCAS ambulance service. What brought George the most joy in his life was spending time hunting, fishing, trips to Bitely, and enjoying time with family and friends. He gave new meaning to the word “tinkering”. George was a humble, caring, and giving person you would ever encounter; he made friends within an instant of meeting you. He was always there to help someone in need. George has left a legacy of service that will live in the hearts of all of us forever. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Teena Penter; and brother-in-law, Chuck Williams. George is survived by his loving wife of fifty-six years, Phyllis Johnson of Niles; children, Lori (Steve) Mudd of Niles; Kevin Johnson of Niles; Michelle (Jeff) Streelman of Byron Center, Michigan; eight grandchildren, Brenden, Sheldon, Delayne, Addisyn, Anna, Skyler, Kylee(Andy), Taylor(Taylor); two great-grandchildren, Parker and Preston; sister, Becky Williams; brother, Ric Johnson; mother-in-law, Carolyn Reid; brother-in-law Dave Penter; sisters-in-law, Debbie Johnson and Connie (Don Webber);along with a host of extended family. George/Dad/Papa, you will forever be missed. WE LOVE YOU! Funeral Services will be held at 4:00 PM, on Friday, May 14th at Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 521 E. Main St in Niles. A time of visitation will be held from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. In keeping with the Covid-19 guidelines, our gathering is limited, the State of Michigan requires all in attendance to follow all guidelines including, social distancing, mandatory mask, and hand sanitizing. We appreciate your assistance in helping us to keep everyone in attendance healthy Memorial contributions in his memory may be directed a local hospice organization of the donor’s choice.