Marvin Riley Johnson

Marvin R. Johnson of Plainwell, MI passed away on Tuesday, October 11, 2022, at the age of 91. He was born in Lawrence, MI on November 5, 1930, the son of Roe and Margie (Utter) Johnson.

He graduated from Gobles High School in 1950, while attending he enjoyed playing basketball. Following graduation he joined the United States Army Infantry and honorably served his country during the Korean War until 1952. Upon returning home he was set up on a blind date, by his sister, with a lovely neighborhood girl: Jean St. John. The two were united in holy matrimony on October 16, 1953, at the justice of the peace in Allegan, MI. Together they enjoyed fifty-six years of marriage and welcomed three daughters into their family.

Marvin ran an excavation business and when he retired from that he went on to drive as a long haul trucker until he was 83 years old with over one million miles without any accidents. In his retirement he enjoyed hunting for antiques and shopping at flea markets. In 2016 he reconnected with an old high school sweetheart: Donnie Lawther. The two became inseparable and started sharing their lives together taking a cruise to Alaska and fishing in their spare time.

He was a very caring and accepting man that taught his daughters the value of hard work and caring for others.

Marvin is preceded in his passing by his wife: Jean Johnson; his parents; and six siblings.

Left to cherish his loving memory are his daughters: Margie (Mark) Herman, Robin (Phil) Newberg, Tracy Johnson; grandchild: Emily Herman; siblings: Ruby Hyde, Roscoe Johnson, and Rex Johnson; his second life companion: Donnie Lawther; and many nieces and nephews.

In accordance with the family’s wishes cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, November 5, 2022 at Journey Family Church 514 West Van Buren Street; Gobles, MI 49055.

In lieu of flowers memorial gifts in memory of Marvin can be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Marvin’s guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.

The Johnson family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 120 South Woodhams Street, Plainwell, MI 49080. 269-685-5881.