Gary Eldon Johnson

Gary Eldon Johnson, 75, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. Born on July 2, 1951, in Bessemer, Michigan, Gary lived a life marked by hard work, adventure, friendship, and deep devotion to those he loved.

Gary married the love of his life, Jeri K. Johnson, on August 28, 1971. Together they shared more than five decades of marriage, building a family centered on love, laughter, and enduring commitment.

He is survived by his wife, Jeri; his children, Kathryn (Ian) Douglas and Kristofer (Nikki Howard) Johnson; and his cherished grandchildren, Drew, Owen, and Tyler Johnson, and J.D., Samantha, and Evelyn Howard. He is also survived by his brothers, Dale (Laura Gentile) Johnson and Bruce (Dianne) Johnson, as well as many cousins, brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Gary graduated from Hoover High School in 1969 and completed the Hoover Company Tool & Die Apprenticeship Program from 1971 to 1974. He dedicated his career to the skilled trades, serving for many years as Tool & Die Afternoon Foreman at The Hoover Company until 2006. He later continued his craft with Stark Mold & Pattern and most recently at Burn-Rite Mold & Machine, where he remained active until his retirement in 2025.

Throughout his life, Gary embraced both work and recreation with enthusiasm. He was an avid motorcyclist and dirt rider who loved the freedom of the open road and the excitement of the trail. He was a devoted member of the Stark County Ski Club, serving on the Trip Committee and as the club's Facebook Administrator. He also volunteered as a guide with Three Trackers of Ohio, contributing his time and energy to support the organization's efforts to the promotion of adaptive recreational sports to persons with physical disabilities. .

Gary's faith was an important part of his life. He attended The United Methodist Church of Uniontown and Greentown United Methodist Church, where he found community, friendship, and spiritual encouragement.

Those who knew Gary will remember his strong work ethic, willingness to lend a hand, quick smile, and love of family and friends. Whether at work, on a motorcycle, on the ski slopes, or gathered with loved ones, he brought warmth, generosity, and good humor to every occasion.

Gary leaves behind a legacy of dedication, adventure, friendship, and love that will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In lieu of flowers, donation to Three Trackers of Ohio, at https://3trackers.info/event-details.

Friends and family may come to call on Saturday, November 21, 2026, from 10-11:30 AM at The United Methodist Church of Uniontown. Celebration of life service at 11:30 AM. Inurnment to follow at Greentown Cemetery.