Ely Twp, MI- Kenneth Charles Johnson, age 85, Ely Township resident passed away on Sunday, May 12, 2024, at his residence.

Kenneth was born in Ely Twp, MI on October 21, 1938, a son of the late Laina S. (Syrjala) and Charles F. Johnson.

Ken was a 1956 graduate of Ishpeming High School. He worked in various area mines for 36 years, retiring from Cleveland Cliffs, Tilden Mine in 1997.

Ken was a hard worker and enjoyed helping others. He loved winters snowshoeing, skiing, shoveling and plowing snow. He had a love for music, especially playing the harmonica and knew the words to thousands of songs. He loved to read, and to work jigsaw puzzles and crossword puzzles. He was proud of his American/Finnish heritage and loved taking saunas. He was a member of the Republic Lions Club and Bethany Lutheran Church where he previously served on the church council.

Ken is survived by his wife Barbara (Menkel) Johnson, whom he married on June 29, 1996, his children: Gregory (Rita) Johnson, Holly Johnson, Brenda (Ray) Mattson, Julie (Dave) Prychitko, Wayne (Nancy) Johnson, Ryan (Angela) Johnson, Stacie (Tim) Nelson and daughter-in-law Linda McCool; step-sons: Ted (Laurie) Christesen, Eric (Chris) Christesen, Peter (Lydia) Christesen and Dane (Ann) Christesen, 31 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Sonja (Makinen) Johnson, son Keith Johnson and his only sibling, much-loved sister Jean and brother-in-law Leslie Warlin.

Ken's family will greet relatives and friends from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Republic followed by his funeral service at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Alex Ross officiating.

A luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall.

Interment will take place at Northland Chapel Gardens.

Memorials may be directed to the Bethany Lutheran Church of Republic in memory of Ken.

Ken's obituary can be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.