Dr. Kenneth Johnson

Dr. Kenneth Ray Johnson, 77, (Holland and Grand Rapids), entered Jesus' presence on Thursday, June 7, 2018. He was peaceful and surrounded by family at home. Deeply in love and married for 56 years, Ken is survived by his wife Sarah (Sally Brown, Brimfield Ohio). Together they made many, rich memories with their daughters: Kara (David) Kuneli (Kalamazoo), Karna Johnson (Chicago) and grandchildren: Jennifer, Melissa, Daniel, Steven and Kristianna. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother David Johnson. Ken was born to Walter and Viola Johnson in Girard, OH on August 23, 1940 and lived in Grand Rapids, until moving with his wife to Holland in 1994. Ken earned his Bachelor's at Kent State University and a Masters and Doctorate in Audiology from MSU. He retired from private practice (Audiology Professionals, Grand Rapids) in 2006. A dedicated follower of Christ, Ken valued his relationship with Jesus above all. His faith was obvious as he led his life with kindness, generosity, patience, integrity, and genuine love for others. His friendly, relaxed, and easy-going manner allowed him to share the gift of salvation. The grace and integrity with which he lived allowed others to see and receive God's love. His exceptional role as a devoted husband and father flowed from knowing and following God's Word. A life-long case of wanderlust, led to traveling whenever and wherever possible. Ken's favorite destinations being: Leelanau, MI, Rocky Mountains, and anywhere on water. He was an avid skier, boater, and MSU fan. He was also a Rotarian for 25 years and past president of the Downtown Grand Rapids Chapter and served his communities in Holland and Grand Rapids in several roles. Ken took time to smell flowers, play with his kids, take his wife to the beach, watch the sunset, try extraordinary new things, find the roads less traveled and seize the day. A former Boy Scout, he always had a plan, and often said, "If you don't know where you're going, any road will get you there." Ken's wry sense of humor was often unexpected from such a quiet and reserved man. Eveready with a quippy comeback or bit of sarcasm, followed by a smirk; he had a way of putting people at ease while keeping them on their toes. Occasionally, he pondered aloud life's mysteries: "Did Adam have a belly button?" or, "Where exactly is midair?" (Hopefully he has the answers now.) Throughout the fog of Alzheimer's, his authentic humor and personality remained. Even in his last days he delivered hysterical comebacks and managed a smile here and there. Living and remaining positive to the end, Ken showed his glass was always at least half full. Visitation will be Sunday, June 10, from 1:00-3:00pm and from 6:00-8:00pm at Langeland Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 East 16th Street in Holland. There will be also be visiting hours on Monday, June 11, from 12:30-1:30pm preceding the memorial service at 2:00pm at Lakeshore Vineyard Church, 710 Central Ave, Holland. Memorial contributions may be given to Alzheimer's Association, Hospice of Holland or Wycliffe Bible Translators. www.langelandsterenberg.com

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Dr. Kenneth Johnson

August 23, 1940 - June 7, 2018