David G. Johnson

David George Johnson, 83, of Gaylord, Michigan, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Sunday, June 28, 2026. Born on March 21, 1943, in Harbor Beach, Michigan, to Claire and Lucille (Wagner) Johnson, David grew up in Harbor Beach and had a wonderful childhood there. He graduated from Harbor Beach High School in 1961 and went on to attend Western Michigan University, where he graduated in 1966. He later enjoyed a fulfilling career in education. David worked as an educator and coach for a combined 30 years at Carsonville and later at North Branch Area Schools, retiring in 1997. Following his retirement, he served as camp director at Lake Louise Baptist Camp in Boyne Falls, a place he had attended as a child, and led the camp for 12 years. He later worked as a claims adjuster for BC Johnson & Associates for four years. In addition to his primary career, David worked a variety of summer jobs, including driving semi for Ma Brown Pickles, serving as director and golf instructor at Teela-Wooket Horseback Camp in Roxbury, Vermont, and earning his residential builder’s license. Outside of work, David loved spending time with his family, golfing, hunting, fishing, and being a good and faithful servant at Higher Ground at Lake Louise Camp in Boyne Falls. David is survived by his loving wife, April (Beverly); his children, Lia (Dave) Gulick, Rhonda (Paul) Bucholtz, David (Lennon) Johnson, and Laura (Doug) Griffin; and his stepson, Charlie (Tammy) Adams. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jacob (Tiffany) Gulick, Cody (Claire) Gulick, Isaiah Griffin, Lucille Griffin, and Oliver Griffin; step-grandchild Zachery Adams; and step-great-grandchildren Braelyn and Kaylee. He is further survived by his sister, Mary Ellen (Jack) Hessling; a very special nephew, Bruce Johnson; and many other nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Claire and Lucille Johnson; his brother, Bruce Johnson; and his sister, Marjorie Ahrens. David made friends wherever he went and seemed to know everyone. He had an incredible memory and was known for remembering names and sharing stories from decades past. Dave loved fishing and hunting with his friends, and spending time at the cabin he built with his son. He also had a deep passion for golf and was a member of Michaywe Golf Club in Gaylord, where he played on three leagues. His Tuesday traveling golf league held a very special place in his life, and the friendships he built there meant a great deal to him. A private family graveside burial will be held at Rock Falls Cemetery in Harbor Beach, Michigan. A celebration of life to be held on Sunday July 19, 2026 at 2:00pm at Higher Ground at Lake Louise Camp, 10750 Stafford Rd. Boyne Falls, MI 49713. Memorial contributions may be made to Higher Ground at Lake Louise Camp at https://highergroundatlakelouise.com. Arrangements are being handled by the Ramsey Funeral Home of Harbor Beach. Memories can be shared at www.RamseyFH.com

David G. Johnson

March 21, 1943 - June 28, 2026