Kenneth L. Johnson

Kenneth L. Johnson, age 88 of Midland, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2024. He was born on December 3, 1935 to the late Erick and Agnes (Paulson) Johnson in Gwinn Michigan where he was raised. Ken graduated from Gwinn High School in 1953 and joined the Navy, serving on the USS Manchester. After leaving the Navy, Ken began working for the DNR as a park ranger at the Fort Wilkins, Baraga and Muskallonge State Parks. While working at Muskallonge, he met the love of his life, Gail McLaren (Johnson), whom he would marry and share 58 years of love, faith, and devotion.

In 1965, Ken entered the Michigan State Police Recruit School and worked at 5 State Police posts throughout his 27-year career, retiring in Newberry in December of 1992. Together, Ken and Gail raised their two children, Marcia (Mike) Payne, and Eric (John Bennett) Johnson, who survive him. Also surviving him are his two grandsons, Ryan (Joanna) Payne and Shawn (Jessica Gault) Payne, who called him as "Bumpie", a name Ken loved and delighted in. Additionally surviving are his niece Sara LaJeunesse, nephew Richard Maki, brother-in-law John (Louetta) McLaren, nephew Jason (Shannon) McLaren, niece Danielle (John) Jolly, and niece Sara (John) Paul. Ken was also blessed with many great nieces and nephews.

Ken was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gail, his parents, Erick & Agnes Johnson, sisters Gertrude (Johnson) Senecal and Lu (Johnson) Maki. An avid handyman, outdoorsman and sportsman, Ken was the first to roll up his sleeves and pitch in when help was needed. In his last years, even in a more fragile state, he was still out helping cut wood for the long Michigan winters. He had dreamed of returning to Michigan's Upper Peninsula someday, but it was more important to be near his grandsons.

A memorial and celebration of life service will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at the Wilson Miller Funeral Home, 4210 North Saginaw Road, Midland, MI 48640. Visitation will be on the same day from 1:00 pm until the time of service.