Mark Bennett Johnson

Mark Johnson, 65, of Sylvania, OH passed away Saturday, July 7, after a recurrence of the cancer with which he was first diagnosed at the age of 23. He retired recently from Vesco Oil.  Born on August 17, 1952, to Geraldine Mae (nee Birkline) and Ivan (Skip) Clifford Johnson in Elyria, OH, Mark was a graduate of Elyria High School and the University of Toledo, where he participated in both marching bands.
After graduation, Mark joined the Rouen team. Continuing in the automotive arena, he completed his career with 29 years at Vesco Oil, based in Southfield, MI, as an automotive sales rep, marketing bulk oil to car dealers. In the latter years, he handled the largest territory, geographically and by sales volume in central Michigan. His customers and coworkers valued him for his reliability and knowledge.
Mark’s career did not interfere with his true passions, first and foremost his family, consisting of wife, Christine (Tina), and children, Sarah (Brad) and Paul. He was close to his family of origin and his wife’s extended family, enjoying many family vacations on Batchewana Bay on the north shore of Lake Superior. His other passion was Classic Lyman Boats, manufactured in Sandusky, Ohio, specifically for Lake Erie. Mark and his father owned and restored three Lymans, starting with a 16-foot Outboard. Next, a 1958, 19-foot Runabout earned “Best Craft in the 21’ and Under” category at the 2005 Lyman Boat Owners Association Regatta. Finally, Tina’s Mark, a 1966, 25-foot Sleeper, was used on the near Great Lakes, culminating with a trip around Lake Huron in company with other Lyman owners. Mark displayed his boats in numerous shows, was featured in the Clinker, and maintained active membership in the LBOA, serving as a Trustee.
A long-time member of Olivet Lutheran Church, Mark served as an usher and enjoyed the euchre, bridge, and golf groups. Mark was proud to hit a hole-in-one during a golf outing.
Mark is survived by his wife, Christine (nee Bowen), and children, Sarah (Brad) Hall and Paul Johnson. He is predeceased by his parents, Ivan and Geraldine, and his brothers, Tyler and Todd.
Visitation is on Thursday, July 12 from 4-8 p.m. at Reeb Funeral Home, 5712 Main St., Sylvania, Ohio. Services will be held on Friday, July 13, 11:00 a.m. at Olivet Lutheran Church, 5840 Monroe St., Sylvania, Ohio.
 
Those wishing to make a memorial tribute are strongly encouraged to donate to Olivet Lutheran Church.

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