Erland Keith "Earl" Johnson's Obituary
Erland Keith "Earl" Johnson, age 92 of Rodney, went peacefully to be with his Lord Wednesday, July 11, 2018, at Canadian Lakes Royal View after a brief stay.
Erland was born to William and Margaret (Zuke) Johnson of Big Rapids on January 8, 1926 at his family's home, the third of twelve children born to the Johnson family. Erland was a lifelong member and previous board member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church of Big Rapids, and served on the Church's 125th Anniversary Committee.
Earl worked at Ferris State University for over 24 years as a Journeyman carpenter. He was a former member and President of the Mecosta Co. Rod & Gun club during a time the club actively introduced turkeys in to the Mecosta County area. Earl was an avid hunter and ice fisherman. He was extremely proud of his Swedish heritage and his family's longevity with the Immanuel Lutheran Church. Earl was a devoted husband and father.
He is survived by his wife of 34 years Gloria (Hagedorn) Johnson of Rodney; his two daughters Tanya Johnson of Round Lake Beach, IL, and Diane Johnson of Rodney; one brother Kenneth Johnson of Morley; two sisters, Anna Ruse of Adrian, and Eva (Richard) Cone of Sparta; two step-children, Lawrence (Debra) Hagedorn of Detroit, and Debbie Hagedorn of Big Rapids; and several grandchildren and great grandchildren. along with several nieces, nephews, and in-laws who loved him.
Erland was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife and mother of his children, Rachel (Miller) Johnson, who passed in 1981; several brothers and sisters, Patty Johnson, Doris (Best) Rheinbolt, Paul (Marge) Johnson, Carol (James) Arrendale, William (Patricia) Johnson, Arthur (Katherine) Johnson, Conrad (Pauline) Johnson, Alice (Gordon) Dunn, and one stepson Norman Dean (Robin) Hagedorn.
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Monday, July 16, 2018, at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Big Rapids, with Rev. Peggy A. Rose officiating. Committal services will follow at the Pine Plains Cemetery in Colfax Township. Erland's family will greet friends at the church beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Monday. Memorial contributions may be given in Erland's name to the Immanuel Lutheran Church or a charity of your choice. Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or express condolences at www.mohnkefuneral home.com
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