LeRoy Johnson
February 24, 1923 - November 14, 2014

During his life that spanned nearly a century, LeRoy Johnson was a hardworking man of honor and integrity who was deeply devoted to the people and things he believed in. He was generous and thoughtful in everything he did, guided by an unwavering faith throughout his lifes journey. Never one to worry about building wealth, LeRoy worked hard in order to provide for the family he treasured more than life itself. Later in life he was filled with unspeakable joy to witness his family tree blossom to include the grandchildren and great-grandchildren who were his greatest source of pride and joy. Although the way before him was not always easy, LeRoy relied on his faith and the love he shared with his family to get him through. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

With the end of WWI in 1918, America was poised for greatness. The decade that followed was filled with great prosperity that was fueled by innovation that transformed the way we lived our everyday lives. Among these advancements were more affordable cars, radios, washing machines, and motion pictures in both color and sound. Amidst this exciting time was the year 1923 that witnessed the birth of a healthy baby boy named LeRoy. He was born to his parents, Frank and Elsie Penrod on February 24th, but he was later adopted by Thomas LeRoy and Mildred (Burkle) Johnson in 1925.

Raised in the family home in Fremont, Michigan, alongside his sister, Marguerite Maggie, LeRoy was a young boy of his generation. He attended local schools including Fremont High School where he played the trumpet in the band and was also part of a class play. In addition, LeRoy received a letter for being the student athletic manager. While growing up he could often be found alongside one of his best friends, Paul Splitstone. After graduating from high school in 1941, LeRoy went on to serve in the Army Air Corps for four years during the days of WWII. Throughout his time in the military he spent one year in the China India Burma Theatre.

Once again a civilian, LeRoy soon had exciting changes in store as he went on to meet the young woman of his dreams. Her name was Iola Jones, and after dating for a time they found themselves deeply in love. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, LeRoy and Iola were married on March 15, 1947. Together they welcomed the births of their two sons, Paul in 1954 and Scott in 1956, and in 1963 their family of five was completed with the adoption of their daughter, Cindy.

The family moved around a bit over the years. They initially lived in North Muskegon until 1964 and then moved to Grand Rapids where they remained until 1972. At that time they moved back to North Muskegon. Throughout his days in the workforce LeRoy made a career with Consumers Energy. For a time he worked on the construction of the Muskegon B.C. Cobb Plant. He spent a total of 36 years there, retiring in 1985 as operation shift supervisor.

In his time away from work LeRoy enjoyed being with his family. It was a family tradition for many years that on Friday nights he would stop at Durweinerschnitzel to get sandwiches to bring home, and as members of Laketon Bethel Reformed Church since 1973, LeRoy and Iola always made sure the family went to church. He also had been a consistory member of the church. There were also fun-filled vacations including to the 1967 Expo in Canada, Mackinac Island, and to a cottage on Silver Lake that they rented over the Fourth of July every year that belonged to his brother and sister-in-law. When grandchildren joined the family, LeRoy couldnt have been happier. He loved doing various activities with them such as working on train tables, riding the Lake Express ferry, and going to the Historical Railway Society.

For as long as he was able, LeRoy enjoyed being busy. He was a life member of Lovell Moore Lodge #182, the Scottish Rite where he became a 32nd degree, and the Muskegon Railway Historical Society. Around the house he enjoyed drawing, designing model railways, and spending time outside where he worked in his flower gardens. When living in Grand Rapids, LeRoy frequented areas where new homes were being built to look for rocks that had been dug up. Over time he had collected enough that he used them to build a beautiful fountain in his yard. After Iola died in 2007, LeRoy developed a friendship with Jim Peterman and a small group associated with the Lodge with whom he frequently went on road trips for dinner.

A longtime resident of the Muskegon community, LeRoy Johnson fully embraced the days he was given while holding his loved ones near. He was a friendly and outgoing man who brought such happiness to those around him. LeRoy accomplished so many things over the years, but nothing made him more proud than his beloved family. He leaves behind a timeless legacy that is deeply rooted in faith and unconditional love that will be carried on by those who follow in his footsteps.

LeRoy Johnson died on November 14, 2014. LeRoys family includes his two sons, Paul of New York and Scott (Andra) of Whitehall; daughter, Cindy, of Chesapeake VA; grandchildren, Christopher, Kimberly (Josh), Kathleen (Anthony), and Charles (Bethanie); and 6 great-grandchildren. LeRoy was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Marguerite Hill; and his wife, Iola of 60 years. Services will be held on Wednesday, November 26, 2014, 11:00 a.m. at Laketon Bethel Reformed Church with Rev. Dr. Sherwin Brantsen officiating. Interment at Laketon Township Cemetery. Visit with LeRoys family and friends on Tuesday, November 25, 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Clock Funeral Home - Muskegon and Wednesday, one hour prior to the service at the church. Memorials may be made to Laketon Bethel Reformed Church.

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