Kim Jay Johnson

March 29, 1951 - February 10, 2017

KINGSFORD- Kim Jay Johnson age 65 of Kingsford passed away at his residence on February 10th, 2017. Kim was born on March 29, 1951 in Iron Mountain, the oldest son of the late Clifford and Bonnie (Anderson) Johnson. He graduated from Kingsford High School in 1969, briefly attended Ferris State University, and ultimately joined the Navy to serve his country. He was a Vietnam Veteran and served in the Navy for many years. Kim married Mary Lou Palmer of Stephenson, on March 30th, 1973. Kim and Mary Lou became a Navy family, moving to various Naval bases including a brief transfer to Scotland. Mary Lou was diagnosed with Stage 4 ovarian cancer while in Scotland, and at that time they had two young children, ages 6 and 2. The family returned to the U.S., Kim advocated for the best care that was available for Mary Lou, and by 1985 she was in remission. After his discharge from the Navy, Kim worked for a few years as a mail handler at the Kingsford Post Office. In 1997, Mary Lou's cancer had returned, and after a brave fight, she preceded him in death on October 28, 2001. In recent years Kim's world was very small, but he will be best remembered for his ability to be quite the conversationalist, with a sincere interest in others. He was known for his quick wit, sense of humor, and his ability to have intelligent debates. He was an avid reader, and maintained a love of cars, music, and current events. Kim is survived by his son Jason (Rachelle) Johnson of Kingsford; daughter Lindsey (Joe) Murphy of Clare, MI; three grandchildren, Bailey and Peyton Johnson and John Murphy; brother and best friend, Lex Johnson of Kingsford; sister Gay (Melvin) Hedberg of Elk River, MN; along with many nieces and nephews. Kim was preceded in death by his parents Clifford and Bonnie Johnson and his wife Mary Lou Johnson. His youngest brother, Jess Johnson, passed away a short time after Kim's passing. The family would like to thank the Oscar G. Johnson VA Hospital for their care over the years, and Steve Ortman of the Ortman Funeral Home in Norway. The family will have a private service at a later date.