Newell Henry Johnson's Obituary
Big Rapids - Newell H. Johnson, 83, of Big Rapids, passed away Wednesday, December 9, 2020 at his residence surrounded by his family.
He was born May 8, 1937, in Flandreau, SD, the son of Albert and Amanda (Ambroson) Johnson, and graduated from Flandreau High School in 1955. Newell went on to earn his Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Arts Education from South Dakota State University, and his Master's Degree in Education from the University of Michigan. From 1960-1962, Newell served in the U.S. Army.
On June 16, 1961, Newell married Barbara Ann Youel. He taught high school in Russell, MN, and then in Buchanan, MI, for several years until moving to Big Rapids in 1966 to accept a teaching position at Ferris State College. Newell retired from Ferris in 1994 after spending most of those years as Professor of Automotive Service and Automotive Management.
Newell was a member of the River Valley Car Club, and enjoyed collecting classic automobiles. He loved to shoot skeet and trap, and was a member of the Reed City Sportsman Club. In his spare time, Newell enjoyed cabinet making and woodworking in his shop.
Newell and Barb were Gold Wing Riders, and had visited all 48 of the contiguous United States via motorcycle. They were also members of the United Church of Big Rapids, as well as the Mecosta County Historical Society.
Bulldog sports were a passion of Newell's, especially hockey, having been a fan since the beginning of Bulldog hockey. He and Barb were members of the Blue Line Club - cheering the "Dawgs" from their season seats in section C.
Newell is survived by his loving wife Barb; 2 daughters, Julie Cole of Big Rapids, and Cindee (Steve) Wilcox of Newaygo; grandson Trenton Cole of Phoenix, AZ; his mother-in-law Dorcas Youel of South Dakota; 2 sisters-in-law, Beverly (Vince) Freiberg, and LaVonne Youel, both of California; and several nieces and nephews. Newell was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers, and 2 sisters.
Memorial services will be at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, May 8, 2021 at the Northend Riverside Park in Big Rapids. Newell's remains will be laid to rest in the family cemetery in Flandreau, SD. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name may be made for Spectrum Health Hospice. Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.
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