IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Kevin

Kevin Johnson Profile Photo

Johnson

Aug 4, 1966 — Aug 15, 2026

Detroit

Obituary

Kevin Johnson was born on August 4, 1966, in Monroe, Michigan, to the late David and Mildred Johnson. He grew up in Monroe as part of a large and loving family and shared the special bond of being a twin with his brother, Keith.

Kevin attended Monroe High School, where he played football and wrestled, graduating with the class of 1984. Shortly after graduation, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. He served honorably, attaining the rank of Corporal and serving as a Marine Rifleman. The discipline, determination, and commitment he demonstrated during his military service remained evident throughout his life.

Kevin accepted Christ at an early age and remained grounded in his faith throughout his life. He later became a member of Word of Faith International Christian Center in Southfield, Michigan, where he met Patricia Tate-Pierce. Kevin and Patricia were united in marriage on June 17, 1994, and were blessed with two daughters, Kimberly and Kellie. Kevin later married Jennifer Johnson on November 30, 2011. Though their marriage later came to an end, they continued to share a friendship.

Hard work was one of the defining characteristics of Kevin’s life. He dedicated more than 35 years to Ford Motor Company. He remained employed by Ford at the time of his passing and was known for his dependability, strong work ethic, and commitment. Kevin rarely missed a day

of work. Showing up, working hard, and getting the job done were simply part of who he was.

Kevin was exceptionally gifted with his hands and could seemingly build, repair, design, or create almost anything. Fiercely independent and determined, Kevin believed that if something needed to be done, he could figure out how to do it. There was almost always a project waiting for him.

Kevin put those abilities to work through a successful deck-building business, building decks for many homes and often helping neighbors with their own projects. Around his home, there was little he could not repair, build, or improve. His many talents made the comparison to “Bob the Builder” especially fitting. If Kevin did not already know how to do something, chances were he would soon figure it out.

His creativity extended far beyond traditional handiwork. Kevin had a remarkable ability to understand architectural designs and transform blueprints into detailed LEGO creations. He created a LEGO display for Ford Motor Company and even designed LEGO representations of homes he purchased. His creations reflected the patience, precision, imagination, and attention to detail he brought to so many areas of his life.

Sports were another important part of Kevin’s life. In addition to playing football and wrestling in high school, he played baseball for many years. He remained an avid football fan and absolutely loved the University of Michigan, Wolverines. Go Blue!

Kevin also had a passion for collecting. His collections included football helmets, trucks and coins. What began as an interest grew into a serious hobby that connected him with collectors around the world, with whom he traded and purchased unique and valuable pieces.

Kevin also had his own unmistakable way of letting people know he was happy to see them.

When he crossed paths with someone he had not seen in a while, they might hear his familiar greeting, “That ole joker right there.” It was simple, humorous, and uniquely Kevin - a phrase his family and friends will undoubtedly continue to hear in their memories for years to come.

On August 15, 2026, at the age of 60, Kevin transitioned peacefully in the comfort of his home with his sister and girlfriend by his side.

Kevin was preceded in death by his parents, David and Mildred Johnson, and his brother, Brandon Johnson.

Kevin leaves to cherish his memory his beloved daughters, Kimberly Johnson and Kellie Johnson; his siblings, Audrey Johnson-Taylor of Seattle, Washington; Marcus Johnson (Kathy Johnson) of California; Michael Johnson of Idaho; Brenda Cain (David Cain) of Seattle, Washington; his twin brother, Keith Johnson (Crystal Johnson); Babs Johnson; Clifford Johnson; and Amber Scott. He also leaves behind his loving girlfriend, Karla Cocking, with whom he shared many beautiful moments and created lasting memories. Karla remained lovingly by his side throughout his final days, offering comfort, companionship, and care. Kevin will also be deeply missed by his two uncles, three aunts, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, military brothers, friends, coworkers, neighbors, fellow collectors, and many others whose lives he touched.

Kevin’s life can be remembered not simply by the number of years he lived, but by all that he built along the way. Some things were built with wood, tools, blueprints, LEGO bricks, and his own two hands. Others were built through his honorable service to his country, years of dedication to his work, his love for family and friends, and the countless times he was there when someone needed him.

The things Kevin built remain, but even more enduring are the memories of the strong, soft-spoken, hardworking, creative, and determined man who built them.

Rest easy, Marine. Your mission is complete. Job well done. Semper Fi. (always faithful)

Kevin will be laid to rest with military honors on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., at Great Lakes National Cemetery, 4200 Belford Road, Holly, Michigan 48442

Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page at www.bacarellafuneralhome.com.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.

Funeral Services

Visitation

September
6

Sunday

O. H. Pye, III Funeral Home

17600 Plymouth Rd, Detroit, MI 48227

10:00 am - 8:00 pm (Eastern time)

Funeral Service

September
8

Tuesday

9:30 - 10:30 am (Eastern time)

Graveside Service

September
8

Tuesday

Great Lakes National Cemetery

4200 Belford Rd, Holly, MI 48442

1:00 - 1:30 pm (Eastern time)

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