Robert Van Johnson

Robert Van Johnson, known to many as Hawkeye, passed away on July 24, 2026, at his residence in Highland Twp. He was born on May 25, 1952, in Detroit, Michigan, and lived a life marked by hard work, devotion to family, and a friendly spirit that left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He was 74 years old.

Robert was the beloved husband of Donna Johnson. He was a devoted father to Debbie Magley and Dawn Johnson, and a proud grandfather to Nicholas Magley, Tyler Magley and his wife Chrissy, and Roy Russell, III. He also cherished his great-grandson, Charles Magley. His family was an important part of his life, and he took great pride in the many roles he held as a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He is also survived by his step-children, Kelly Jo Novik and her husband Anthony, and Tony Pease and his wife Sunshine. He was a loving step-grandfather to Bryce Novik, Josey Novik, Tony Pease, Jr., and Shirley Johnson, and a step-great-grandfather to Abby, Kayden, Isla, and Hudson. He is further survived by his sisters and family members, Linda Johnson, Sheila Holmes and her husband Ray, Janie Cipielewski and her husband Rick, and the late Alice Fay and the late Allen. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and second cousins who will remember him with affection.

Robert was a graduate of Avondale High School, and he carried the values of that education with him throughout his life. He was known as a man who was handy, loving, and friendly, and these qualities were evident in the way he lived and in the relationships he built. He had a practical nature and a willingness to help, and those traits made him someone others could depend on.

In his working years, Robert served as a final inspector for General Motors, a position that reflected his careful eye and strong sense of responsibility. Before his time with General Motors, he worked as a carpentry helper, where he developed skills that stayed with him throughout his life. He also enjoyed tree trimming, a task that suited his hands-on nature and his appreciation for working outdoors. Whether at work or at home, he was someone who took pride in doing things well.

Robert will be remembered for the warmth he brought to his family and friends, as well as for the steady and dependable way he approached life. He was a man of simple strengths and enduring kindness, and his presence will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and in the many lives he touched over the years.

(The draft text of this obituary was generated using artificial intelligence technology)

Visitation Thursday, July 30, 2026 from 1-7 PM at Elton Black & Son Funeral Home, 3295 E. HIghland Rd.

Funeral service Friday, July 31, 2026 10:00 AM at the funeral home.