Brian passed away Monday, August 7, 2023 at his home in Kalamazoo.
He was born January 23, 1947 in Geneseo, Illinois, the son of Russell and Shirley (Clarey) Johnson. He attended the University of Virginia, George Washington University, the University of Illinois and Western Michigan University and received several Masters Degrees.
Brian worked as a mechanical engineer for Consumers Energy, as a Youth Pastor at New Covenant Living Church in Jackson and for 25 years as a psychologist at Child & Family Psychological Services and at Lindsey South LLC.
As a young man Brian enjoyed running and wrestling and had obtained the rank of Life Scout in the Boy Scouts of America. He also enjoyed camping, hiking and loved his dogs. On August 24, 1968 in Chicago, he married Marcia Lawrence who survives.
Also surviving are his daughter, Kerry (Joe) Jackson of Mattawan; brother, Craig (Pam) Johnson of Nebraska and nieces, Jenny and Melissa and nephew, Terry.
He was preceded in death by his parents and infant daughter, Heather.
According to his wishes cremation has taken place.
A memorial service will be held at a later time.
Contributions in memory of Brian may be made to Running Strong for American Indian Youth.
Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.
Dawn Vollink
Marcia, We were so shocked to learn of Brian’s passing. We just wanted to send our condolences and let you know that you’re in our thoughts at this challenging time. Dawn Vollink and Linnea Halfvarson
Max & Maggie Radue
My husband and I went to school with Brian and graduated with him. He was a great guy who would talk with anyone.
Our sympathies to his family.
Bryce Chamberlain
Sorry to hear of Brian’s passing.
He was a fine friend from early days in Sunday School and all through school years including college
David Berner
So sorry to hear of Brian’s passing. He was a great classmate that everyone liked. I also remember good times with him in Sunday School. He made a difference in this world and we are very sorry for your loss.
Linda Kerker
I’m so to hear about Brian’s passing. He was a classmate of mine. He was a very quiet but friendly guy who would always speak to everyone. May he rest in peace!!
Amy Albertson
Brian was a fabulous example of a good human being, kind, considerate, encouraging, trustworthy, and a friend. I owe a part of my success to him.
I am deeply sorry for your loss and pain. I will keep you and all your family in my heart.
David Fatzinger
Brian was a good man. I got to know him at C&FPS. Very intelligent man. I enjoyed talking to him. He had compassion and motivation to help others. He will be missed. I’m very sorry for your loss.
Jessica Hansen
I am so very sorry to hear of Brian’s passing. He was a kind and supportive mentor that played an important role in my career and professional development. He will be missed.
Martin Phillips
What a great youth Pastor and man of God. Now you are in his arms. You influenced many for Christ and Great example of Love to all you touched
Tayla underly
I will never forget Brian he was me and my husband’s marriage counselor for a lot of years and I always loved hearing about his wife and dogs he loved them so much
Debbie Bartolovich
Marcia, so very sorry to hear about Brian. I know he was everything to you, like John was to me. There’s nothing any one except God can do to heal the pain. I’ll be praying for healing and Gods arms wrapped around you. Love Debbie Bartolovich
Bev Lewis
Brian was a high school classmate. He treated peers with respect and a smile. So sorry for the entire family’s loss.
Kurt Johnson and Family
We are very sorry to hear about Brian’s passing – sending condolences to the family
Carol Wright Johnson
I’m sorry to hear of your loss. I have great memories of growing up next door to the Johnsons. I was the pesky little neighbor girl. We use to race garter snakes. Craig and Brian were so nice. I know he will be missed
Mj mom
Mjs mom ….. I’m not even sure how to explain to mj but when he didn’t text for his video call and texts went unanswered I had a terrible feeling. I’m so sorry. He was a gift to all.
HH's Mother
My sincere condolences to the Johnson Family. He will be truly missed. I thank God for allowing Mr. Johnson to share his gift(s) with our family.
M. Brandt
I had been a client of Brian’s for about 9 years and he was such an easy person to talk to and share things with. It was such a gut punch to hear of his passing and at least now he is at peace. I send my condolences to the Johnson family, close friends, and relatives. He was such an important part to my family and he will be missed.
Trevor Glidden
I had been a client of Brian’s while going thru my divorce and he was such an easy person to talk to and share things with. It was such a gut punch to hear of his passing yesterday and at least now he is at peace. He was so easy to talk to and had such compassion. I send my condolences to his family, close friends, and relatives. He was such an important part to my family and he will be missed. Now I know why his green truck in no longer in the parking lot that we share. RIP Brian.
Anne L Sluyter
I was saddened to hear of Brian’s passing. He was a compassionate colleague at CFPS. My condolences to the family.
Anne Sluyter
Sharon Fisher
Marcia,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your husband.
My sympathy and prayers for you and your family at this time.
Sharon
Lisa Cameron
Brian will truly be missed in my family. He was our counselor to my son for many years while growing up and helped me many times while parenting my son and daughter. Brian kept in touch with me through the years. When my daughter needs counseling, he was there to help. I am still shocked at the news of him passing. My prayers are with you, Marcia and your family.
Spring
Brian was an amazing counselor he was always there for my two children. Rest in peace and my prayers are with his family.