James Peter Johnson

A “Victor Valiant...” Jim was an enthusiastic and loyal fan of University of Michigan football. But his family and friends knew that he was the real “conquering hero”. Jim used his grit, determination and optimism to battle many illnesses over the years. Each time he got back up to again live life fully. Yet Jim also knew when to admit defeat. “This is not a life,” he recently said. Jim died peacefully on June 4, 2017 to be with his Lord and Savior. “But thanks be to God! He gives us the Victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” I Corinthians 15:57. 

Jim was born in Ludington, MI, the son of a loving and athletic Swedish family which included six brothers and four sisters. “Watch out for those Johnson boys,” was what coaches of opposing high school sports teams advised. Jim served in the Michigan National Guard. He retired from the General Motors Coopersville Plant. Jim was a proud and caring father and grandfather. His opportunities to travel enhanced his passion for history and politics. He loved to golf. While spending many winters in Florida, Jim learned the art of fused glass and created many beautiful pieces. Although living many years in the Grand Rapids area, he moved to Grand Haven to again be near his beloved Lake Michigan and its memorable sunsets. 

Jim is lovingly remembered by his wife, Eunice; two sons Paul (Renee) and J. Peter (Jamie); four grandchildren, Ryann, Britt, Erik and Gage; one brother, Don (Paula) and two sisters Karen Cloutier and Sandra (Ken) Kolb; brothers- in- law John and James (Michelle) Thurman; and many dear nephews, nieces, loved ones and friends. He was preceded in death by his first wife Karen, the mother of his two sons; by four brothers, Philip, Dean, Tom and Warren, and two sisters, Phyllis and Alice. 

The memorial service for Jim will be at 11am on Saturday, July 15, 2017, at St. Luke's Lutheran Church, 3215 4 Mile Rd NE, Grand Rapids, MI, with a visitation at 10am. Family and friends will gather at the Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home in Grand Rapids on Friday, July 14 from 1-5pm. A memory sharing hour will be held from 4-5pm. 

Memorial contributions may be given to St. Luke's Lutheran Church or to Hospice of North Ottawa County. Share memories with the family at www.metcalfandjonkhoff.com.

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