Margie Johnson

Margie Johnson of Plainwell, MI, went peacefully into the arms of Jesus on November 18, 2023, surrounded by her family after a hard fought battle with cancer. She was 80. She was born on June 12, 1943, in Decatur, MI, to the late Gerritt and Esther Waterlander. Margie was preceded in death by her husband, Gary Johnson, her brother Jacob Waterlander, sisters Mary Asma and Veronica Thompson and brother-in-law Herb Lipschultz.

Margie is survived by her loving children: Kurt (Shannon) Johnson of Mattawan, Shelli (Don) Osterhout of Kalamazoo, and Angela (Neil) Ridgway of Plainwell. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Mara and Luke Johnson, Grant and Alex (Arianna Camanse) Osterhout, and Liam, Caitlyn, and Declan Ridgway. Margie is also survived by sisters in law, Laverne lovingly known as "Toots", Joanie Waterlander and brothers in law, Al Asma and Frank Thompson; special nieces and nephews, Traci Darrow, Todd, Troy "Tracker" and Tyler Lipschultz, Gerrit Waterlander, Maria Denhof, Angelo Waterlander, Jeff Asma, Rhonda Rakowski, Julie "Mongo" Quibell, Ron Asma, Natalie, Frank and Chris Thompson and their spouses and children.

After graduating from Decatur High School where she was a majorette in the marching band, Margie went to work for the UpJohn Company. She took a hiatus from the workforce to devote her heart, time and energy raising her three children while keeping a beautiful home. Later, she returned to the workforce and continued her successful career as an executive secretary at Pharmacia and then Pfizer, where she retired.

In her free time, Margie loved spending time with her family, especially her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed sewing, gardening, and taking care of her home. Margie attended Texas Corners Bible Church, where she found meaningful friendships and was encouraged by (and eagerly shared) the biblically sound teachings. Margie's warm presence and loving nature will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Cremation has taken place. Service will be held on Friday, December 29, 2023, at Texas Corners Bible Church located at 7780 South 8th Street, Kalamazoo, MI with Pastor Dave Thompson officiating. –10 a.m. visitation with friends and family, 11 a.m. memorial service, luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers Margie’s wishes were to make a donation to Texas Corners Bible Church or International Fellowship of Christians and Jews.

While visiting Margie’s webpage at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory with the family. The family is being assisted by Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home; 120 S. Woodhams St. Plainwell, MI 49097 (269-685-5881).