Submitted by: Dan Rich
Oct. 28, 1938 - Nov. 5, 2008
South Bend Tribune 11/9/2008
MISHAWAKA - Richard R. "Butch" Johnson, 70, of
Mishawaka, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 5th, in his home with
his family by his side. Butch was born on October 28, 1938, in
Mishawaka, as the son of Arthur A. and Virginia (Gilliland)
Johnson. Preceding Butch were his parents, a son, Arthur L.
Johnson, and a grandson, Frankie Layne. On March 16, 1974, in
South Bend, he married the former Judy A. Taylor.
Surviving are his wife, Judy; four sons, Buster Ray (Codi) of
Elkhart, Michael of Mishawaka, M. Joe Layne (Danielle) of
South Bend and Kenneth M. Layne of Mishawaka; three daughters,
Diana (Denny) Andrzejewski of South Bend, Elizabeth
(Michael) Ringle of Osceola and Norma (Chuck) Maggio
of Mishawaka; 22 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Butch was employed by Dodge Manufacturing for 22 years, Deck
Manufacturing for 12 years, and retired from Shafer Gear Works in
2000. Working security with American Security for six years. He
was a United States Marine Corps veteran, where he served as an
MP. He currently has a grandson following in his footsteps, also
serving in the Marine Corps. A member of FOP #91 Auxiliary,
Mishawaka High School Alumni Association and the Living Word
Ministry in Elkhart.
At Butch's request, there will be no visitation or services. Private family services will be held at a later date. Hahn Funeral Home, 505 W. 8th Street, Mishawaka, has been entrusted with handling the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Butch's name to the charity of the donor's choice.