Richard E. Johnson

Lansing, MI – Richard Elmer "Rich" Johnson, a dedicated family man, Navy veteran, and long-time Michigan Department of Corrections leader, passed away on December 20, 2024, at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, Michigan, just a few weeks shy of his 87th birthday.

Born on January 31, 1938, in Marquette, Michigan, to Elmer and Josie Johnson, Rich grew up in the Upper Peninsula, where he developed a lifelong passion for sports, especially hockey. A standout defensive player in his youth, he also nurtured hobbies such as fishing and golfing and was an avid supporter of Detroit and Michigan State University sports teams. His Irish roots were a source of pride, and he loved sharing jokes and laughter with friends and family alike. Rich also cherished spending time at his cottage on Lake Ann, often trying to beat his father-in-law, Marvin, at cribbage, a friendly, but earnest, rivalry. He always loved his family gatherings there.

Rich enlisted out of high school where he served in the U.S. Navy as an Electrician’s Mate aboard the USS Wasp (CV-18), a service he remained proud of throughout his life.

After his military service, Rich returned to Marquette and attended Northern Michigan University, where he earned a B.A. in Social Work. Later, he was awarded a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois. Rich began a long career in corrections, starting as a corrections officer and rising to warden and finally to the position of Assistant Deputy Director of Correctional Facilities for the Michigan Department of Corrections. His leadership and dedication to public service made him a respected figure in the field.

In 1969, Rich married Sandra Jean Boes in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. The couple eventually settled in Lansing, Michigan, in 1977, where they raised their children, Vincent, Matthew, and Amy. Rich's commitment to his family was unwavering, and he took great joy in being a father and grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife Sandra, son Vincent (spouse Marcia), daughter Amy, and five grandchildren: Gunnar Ray, Henry, Samuel, Sean, and Alec.

Rich was also predeceased by his son Matthew, who passed away in 2022, and his sister, Mary Jo Dobrzenski, who died later that same year. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the “Houlihan’s Prayer Group”, and his community involvement reflected his caring and compassionate nature.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Gerard Catholic Church in Lansing on January 3, 2025 at 10:30 AM. The Family will receive friends from 9:30 AM until the time of the service. Rich leaves behind a legacy of service, love and laughter. His life can be summed up in three words: Husband, Father, and Family. In lieu of flowers, donations would be greatly welcomed to St. Gerard Church, St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Wounded Warriors, in memory of Rich Johnson.

Arrangements are being handled by Gorsline Runciman Tiffany Chapel.