Brian Walter Johnson
Brian Walter Johnson
SANDS TOWNSHIP, MI- Brian Walter Johnson, age 80, of Sands Township, passed away Sunday, June 9, 2024, at Michigan Veteran Homes D. J. Jacobetti on Sunday, June 9, 2024.
Born March 12, 1944, in Wakefield, Michigan, a son of Walter and Selma (Harju) Johnson, Brian was raised in Marquette and graduated from Graveraet High School in 1962. He continued his education by enrolling at Northern Michigan University.
On January 4, 1966, Brian was inducted into the US Army, serving in Aviation while stationed in Alaska, until his honorable discharge on December 20, 1967. He remained in Alaska for another five years, working in the Anchorage post office. Returning to the Lower 48, Brian purchased the Y Motel in Sagola in 1977, operating it for 22 years, and retiring in 1999. On September 2, 2000, Brian was united in marriage to the love of his life, Jeanine Gerstner. Together, the couple moved back to Alaska to spend their retirement, and in 2017 relocated to Sands Township to establish their home. Brian was a man of the outdoors, enjoying all that nature had to offer. He loved being in the woods, hunting, fishing, going to camp, and gardening. He possessed a good sense of humor and always had time for a good party. He belonged to many conservation groups, was a life member of the American Legion, and a life member of the Disabled American Veterans. Brian will be missed by many.
Brian is survived by his wife, Jeanine; his children, Melissa (Josh) Rabideau of Carney and Joe Stankevich of Iron River; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; his brother, Wayne (JoAnn) Johnson of Crystal River, FL; a niece, Kirsten, and nephew, Ross.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Nazareth Stankevich.
The family will receive relatives and friends at Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services on Saturday, June 15, beginning at 3:00 pm until the time of service at 6:00 pm. Rev. Kevin Taylor will officiate. A reception will follow in the funeral home reception room. Graveside services will be held at the Park Cemetery on Monday, June 17 at 12:00 noon with veterans honors.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti Life Enrichment Fund, 425 Fisher Street, Marquette, MI 49855.
Condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.