Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties
IRONWOOD, Mich. — Herbert LeRoy Johnson, 86, loving husband, father and grandfather, returned to his heavenly home on Oct. 3, 2024, surrounded by family.
Herb was born to Herbert and Dorothy (Bullen) Johnson on April 29, 1938, in Bessemer Township. He graduated from high school in 1956 and studied electrical engineering at Michigan Technological University. He then joined the U.S. Army on Feb. 15, 1961, and became a sergeant, serving during the Vietnam War. Herb received the AFEM, MUC and good conduct medal and was honorably discharged on Jan. 27, 1964.
Following discharge, Herb lived in Wakefield and met the love of his life, Judy Swanson. On Sept. 25, 1971, they were married at Salem Lutheran Church and raised two daughters, Jennifer and Stacey. Herb worked for Michigan Bell and retired in 1995.
Herb is survived by his daughters, Jennifer of Ironwood, and Stacey (Richard) Heine of Hermantown, Minn. Herb adored his three grandchildren, Macie Heine of Durango, Colorado; Madeline Heine of Proctor, Minnesota; and Grace Heine of Hermantown. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Jordan Segal of Grayslake, Illinois; sisters-in-law, Dolores Swanson, Sharon Johnson and Marlene Johnson, all of Ironwood; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Herb enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed fishing, woodworking, cooking and completing Sudoku puzzles. Herb took great pride in being a part of his grandchildren’s activities and lives. He was an inspiration to everyone who knew him.
Herb was preceded in death by his wife, Judy. He also was preceded in death by his father, Herbert; his mother, Dorothy; his brothers, Donald Johnson and Dennis Johnson; and his sister, Verna Segal. In addition, Herb was preceded in death by Judy Johnson, Denny’s first wife.
A celebration of Herb’s life will be held at a later date.
The family would like to thank Dr. Franklin Villanueva, Holly and Regional Hospice Services. We appreciate all of the love and support you have extended to us during this period of sadness.
The family has chosen McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home in Ironwood to honor Herb’s legacy of life. To make an online condolence, visit McKevittPatrickFuneralHome.com.