Howard E. Johnson Iii

Howard E. Johnson III of Akron, age 64, passed away at home on November 16, 2023 with his loving family by his side. Howard was born on March 26, 1959 in Caro, the son of Ron and Mary Ann (Parks) Warju and the late Howard E. Johnson II. He graduated from Akron-Fairgrove High School with the class of 1978. During high school, Howard was a track all-star, receiving over fifty medals and setting many records, some still unbroken today. In 1991, Howard married the love of his life, the former Lynne Creason. Together they shared over thirty-two years, four wonderful children, many camping trips, and countless memories. He worked at Archer Daniels Midland, Fairgrove Facility as a Grain Processor for over twenty years until his retirement to become a full-time stay at home dad.

For several years, Howard was a Boy Scout leader, always an excellent bowler, and loved all sports. He would watch anything sports related, collected many sports cards, and was a die-hard fan of the Detroit Tigers and Lions. Howard enjoyed watching NASCAR and was always up to go fishing. Music held a special place in his heart, especially the warm crackle of vinyl records; Howard loved to “spin the vinyl.” He was wonderful at woodworking; his craftsmanship was meticulous, and the beauty of his creations reflected not only his skill but also his patience and dedication. A devout Christian, Howard found comfort and guidance in the pages of his Bible. He was a man of few words but immeasurable wisdom. Howard’s quiet observations, patience, and thoughtful actions spoke volumes about his compassionate nature. Those fortunate enough to know him recognized the deep love he had for his family.

Howard leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife, Lynne of Akron; children and their spouses, Jennifer & Brent Gaffney of Clio, Evan & Kelsey Johnson of Akron, Courtney & Jeffrey Buffington of Essexville, and Ryan Johnson of Unionville; granddaughter, Lilliana Johnson; mother and father, Mary Ann & Ron Warju of Caro; siblings, Theresa & Jesse Hoppus of Cornersville, Tennessee and Edward & Iovana Johnson of Titusville, Florida; several step-brothers and step-sisters; sister-in-law, Tina Johnson; many nieces, nephews, and friends. In addition to his father, Howard was preceded in death by his brother, John Johnson.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at the Ransford Collon Funeral Home in Caro. Rev. Mike Leiter will officiate with a private inurnment to be held at a later date in Demorest Cemetery. The family will be present to receive friends at the funeral home on Monday from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Tuesday from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service at 1:00 p.m. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to his nurse, Neema and the entire staff at Covenant VNA for their compassion and excellent care of Howard. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to Covenant VNA, 15 N Michigan Ave, Saginaw, MI 48602.