Bob passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Sunday, October 31, 2021 at the age of 74. He was born on January 21, 1947 to the late Martin and Margaret (Merithew) Johnson in Bay City, Michigan. He graduated from Bay City Central High School in 1966. Bob was a Navy veteran. He defended his country during the Vietnam War on the USS Paricutin from 1967 to 1969. Bob loved building things, especially woodworking. He also enjoyed camping and participating in craft shows. Bob also loved being around people, especially kids. He was a very big dog and cat lover.
Bob met his wife, Linda Saumier, at the former Northwood College. She caught his eye after beating him at euchre multiple times. They married on May 24, 1969 at Hemlock United Methodist Church, and have been married for 52 wonderful years. Bob is survived by his wife and their children, Kimberly Yax, Todd (Kiersten) Johnson and Sheila (Timothy) Reid; grandchildren, Matthew (Jessie) Doyle, Samantha Doyle, Alexandria Yax, Anthony Johnson, Noah (Ariel) Johnson, Benjamin Johnson and Madison Johnson; step-grandchildren, Matthew Winkowski and Jacob Harrison; one great grandchild on the way; brother, Gordon Johnson; sisters-in-law, Marianne (Robert) Howe, Joyce Peters and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Bob is preceded in death by his brother David Johnson; father and mother-in-law, Homer and Dorothy Saumier; brother-in-law, Thomas Peters and nephew, Brian Wolfgram.
In honoring the wishes of Bob, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at Lighthouse Baptist Church in Saginaw, Michigan on Saturday, November 6, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. The family will be present at the church from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the service. Officiating will be Pastor Karl Griffiths. Military honors will take place before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the wishes of the family.