Russell Johnson

Russell Dean Johnson
"Russ"
"Poppy"

Russell Dean "Russ" Johnson, age 76, passed away on Wednesday, August 2, 2017 with his loving and dedicated family by his side. He was born on August 30, 1940 to Carl and Desdy (Love) Johnson in Sunbury, Ohio. Russ was a lifelong ironworker and member of the Local 55. He was known as the "Patriarch" of an enormously large and blended family in which he loved to call his own. Many summer days were spent fishing at his cottage at Coldwater Lake, MI. Poppy will be remembered for his selflessness as a family man and friend, wonderful provider, rooting for the Buckeye's, great sense of humor and quick whit and devoted Democrat!

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of nearly 30 years, Sonja Martin-Johnson; children, Terry (Kathleen) Maxwell, Jack Maxwell (Heidi), Chuck Martin, Steve Martin, DeeDee (Chris) Zawodny, Laurie (Doug) Zawodny and Julie (Rick) Martin-Huggins; affectionately known as "Poppy" by his many precious grandchildren and great-grandchildren; daughter in law, Tina Johnson; brother, Don Hales; best friend and bad penny, Bobby Nickles; numerous nieces and nephews and loving canine companion, Poppie. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Randy Johnson; sisters, Nancy Johnson-Shropshire and Jean Tussing and brother, Daniel Johnson.

The family will receive guests on Tuesday, August 8, 2017 from 5-7:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, 4150 W. Laskey Rd. (419-473-0300) with Memorial Services beginning in the funeral home at 7:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider all memorial contributions be made in Russ' memory to the A.S.P.C.A.

The family of Russ aka Poppy would like to thank the nurses and staff at ProMedica Hospice for their diligent care and love they provided to him and to the family.

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