Michael David Johnson's Obituary
Michael Johnson Obituary
A come and go viewing for those who wish to pay their respects to Michael David Johnson will be 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Sunday, March 22, 2020 at Bixby Funeral Service. To respect the current 'Social Distancing' recommendations, Michael's family will not be present. However, there will be an opportunity to record a story or memory to share with the family. Life Celebration plans will be made and announced in the near future.
Born August 10, 1952, in Claremore, Oklahoma, Michael was the only child of John David and Wanema (Chissoe) Johnson. Growing up in Jenks, Michael attended Jenks Public Schools. Influenced by his mother, a pianist and vocalist, Michael began playing music at an early age. He played with the Trojan marching band, but later learned the art of the bass guitar which allowed him to play with many different bands in many different venues around Tulsa, the country, and even overseas.
In addition to playing music professionally, Michael worked numerous years as a stationary engineer most recently for Oklahoma State University’s Health Science Center.
A musician and a dedicated worker, there was nothing that brought Michael greater joy than being a father. He was so proud of his sons: Geoffrey and Brandon and he loved being a grandfather to his grandchildren: Oliver, Ellis, Mabrey, and Miles.
When he wasn’t playing music or working, Michael enjoyed traveling and baseball. He also loved being in the company of his friends where they would “smoke cigars and tell lies.” Many of his friends called him by his nicknames, Maddog and Chief. Most would agree Michael was a conversationalist who always had a smile on his face.
In his later years, Michael enjoyed taking care of his property, as well as his dad.
Michael passed from this life on Wednesday, March 18, 2020 in Tulsa. He was 67.
In his own words, Mike wrote, “if you are reading this, it means I have left the planet. Weep not for me as my arduous journey is complete. Now I am on my next adventure following the path set forth by my loved ones and as promised by our Lord, Jesus Christ. Treat each other as you want to be treated, never stray from your course, love your families with all your heart, and know that we shall see each other again.”
Michael was preceded in death by: his parents: Wanema and John David Johnson.
He is survived by: his sons: Geoffrey Johnson and wife, Emily and their children: Oliver and Ellis; and Brandon Johnson and wife, Kelly and their children: Mabrey and Miles.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the reddirtrelieffund.org . It doesn't just serve Red Dirt musicians, but covers the entire musician community of Oklahoma. Today, any person living in Oklahoma who has worked in the business of making music for at least 5 years is eligible for aid.
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