Robert Johnson Obituary

Robert A. Johnson Jr. passed away at the age of 86 on January 27, 2026. He was born on August 4, 1939.
He is survived by his wife of twenty-two years, Liz Johnson of Hendersonville, NC; son, Mike Johnson of Washington DC; daughters, Debbie (Chris) Clancy of Ludington, MI, and Sarah French (Mike Walters) of Kalamazoo, MI; grandchildren Tori Clancy, Molly French, and Erin Clancy; great-grandchild, Robbie Bammert. Bob is proceeded in death by father, Robert A. Johnson Sr.; mother, Helen Johnson; and wife, Martha Johnson.
Bob graduated from Otsego High School in 1957, and Western Michigan University in 1961. He began his career as a high school history teacher in North Muskegon, MI, where he was a favorite among the students and staff. After a few short years of teaching, he was eager to move into the corporate world. He worked in Human Resources at American Motors, JI Case, Clark Equipment, and finally Volvo Construction, where he ended his career as the head of the Human Resource Department at the Volvo North American Headquarters in Asheville, NC. Bob was well-liked in the workplace, as he believed that the happier his employees were, the more productive they would be.
In high school, Bob played the drums and guitar, was a proud member of the Skunk Patrol with his close friends and was voted Best Dressed-an early sign of the personality, style, and confidence that stayed with him throughout his life.
Known for his thoughtful planning, Bob believed that the best memories were made intentionally-especially during his beloved two-week summer vacations when his children were younger, which he planned with care and enthusiasm year after year with his wife Sue. Later in life, Bob's children were the ones to plan yearly special vacations, taking Bob to upper Michigan several times, and for the past few years, Highlands, NC. The time spent together with his kids was the most precious gift to Bob.
Bob had a playful and thoughtful side that showed up in family traditions. Valentine's Day vacations were a favorite surprise, revealed through cleverly written cards filled with clues about where they were going and what to pack. He delighted in creating anticipation and wonder. He also loved taking his kids to Dean's Ice Cream for surprise floats, turning a simple treat into a guessing game as they tried to guess the flavors he chose.
Family was at the center of Bob's life. He rarely missed a birthday for his grandchildren, happily traveling to Michigan whenever there was something important to celebrate. His home-and especially his pool-was a gathering place full of laughter, where the grandkids loved to play when they would visit, and everyone felt welcome.
Every day at precisely 3 o'clock, Bob could be found enjoying his orange cappuccino, a small ritual that brought him comfort and consistency. For years, Bob did the Sunday puzzle in the paper, and he also enjoyed his weekly breakfasts with his friend, Fred. He was a devoted fan of Michigan football, the Detroit Lions, and especially the Detroit Tigers, following his teams with loyalty and hope that never wavered.
Evenings were often spent around the table playing I'll Buy It, a card game enjoyed by everyone, but especially his wife, Liz, and his sister-in-law, Gayle. Those games were filled with laughter, friendly competition, and togetherness.
As he grew older, Bob developed a fondness for antiquing and classic movies, appreciating the stories and craftsmanship of the past. Though he never had pets for much of his life, he eventually found himself completely charmed by his cats, who became unexpected companions he truly loved.
Bob will be remembered for his thoughtfulness, his traditions, his sense of fun, and the deep love he had for his family. His legacy lives on in shared stories, family games, surprise trips, and the countless moments he made special simply by being himself.
A Memorial Service celebrating Bob's life will be held at a later date in Otsego, MI.