EWEN, Mich. - Eugene W. Johnson, 82, a lifelong resident of Ewen, went to heaven on Friday, Dec. 24, 2021, after a four-year battle with stage 4 melanoma.

Eugene was the loving husband of Alice (Tulppo) Johnson for 59 years.

In addition to Alice, Eugene is survived by three children, Jean Marczak (Clarence Cook), Peggy Myaard (Edward) and Steve Johnson; five grandchildren, Charles Eugene Fortin (Sarah Hornbeck), Alexandra Jane Wesseling (Jason) and triplets, John Severt, Elizabeth Jean and Samuel Reino Myaard; two great- grandsons, Jensen Xavier Hornbeck and Greysen Eugene Fortin; as well as numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Eugene was welcomed to heaven by his parents, Severt "Sy" and Mary Johnson; a sister, Audrey Franti; a brother, Norman Johnson; a niece, Ann Franti; and a nephew, Norman "Butch" Johnson.

Eugene served in Company C of the 2nd armored rifle BN of the 36th Infantry from 1958-1960. During his time of service, he was stationed in Germany.

After his military service, he went to work at White Pine Copper Mine. Eugene retired from the mine in 2001, after 40 years of service.

Eugene demonstrated his Sisu throughout his entire life. True to his Finnish roots, he enjoyed cutting wood and taking a sauna his entire life.

A funeral service will be held Friday, Dec. 31, at 11 a.m. EST, preceded by visitation at 10 a.m. EST, at the First Lutheran Church, 200 N. Cedar St., in Ewen, with the Rev. Kay Richter officiating. The family strongly encourages that everyone wear a mask that attends.

A luncheon will be served at the church fellowship hall following the service.

Memorial contributions may be made in Eugene's memory to the Ontonagon County Cancer Association, Box 282, Ontonagon, MI 49953, or the SONCO Ambulance, Box 191, Bruce Crossing, MI 49912.

To view Eugene's obituary online and express condolences, visit lakesidememorialchapel.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield.