Russell E. Johnson, 65, of Hart passed away December 15, 2011. He was born March 31, 1946 in Clinton County, the son of Guy and Mardell (Claypool) Johnson. He was the founder and owner of Cherry Blossom Manor. Russ married Sharon Bratton on September 27, 1986, and she survives him. Also surviving are children, Jennifer Garrod, Scott (Melva) LaBar; grandchildren, Courtney LaBar, Amanda and Emily Garrod; 4 great-grandchildren; step-children, Rick (Christina) Moreno, Jeff (Cynthia) Moreno, and Christopher Moreno; nine step-grandchildren and four step-great grandchildren; brother, Doug Johnson; in-laws, Jim (Jackie) Bratton; sister-in-law, Linda (Mike) Buckley; brother-in-law Mark Cockrum; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Mr. Johnson was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Dave; his sister, Joanie; two sisters-in-law, Vicky Cockrum and Pam Cripps; nephew, James Buckley; and niece, Nicole Boron.
A memorial service for Mr. Johnson will be Wednesday, January 11, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. at the King Funeral Home in Hart. Friends will have an opportunity to greet the family at a light reception at the funeral home following the service. Memorials may be made to the Cherry Blossom Manor Resident Activity Fund, 611 East Main Street, Hart, MI 49420.