L. Peter Johnson

Peter was born Aug. 2, 1940, in Norway, to his parents Frederick and Lila (Mellon) Johnson. He was a graduate of the Kingsford High School Class of 1958. He graduated from Northern Michigan University in 1962 where he majored in biology and chemistry and minored in education. In addition to his bachelor of science degree he later received his masters in administration degree from Northern Michigan University in 1988.

A lifelong resident of the area, Peter thoroughly enjoyed his 36-year career as a highly respected teacher, principal and superintendent for the students and families of Flivver Nation. The many messages of condolence and tributes honoring his teaching gifts in the sciences from his students and colleagues have been a great source of pride and comfort for the family.

“He was my teacher. built confidence in me, made me feel on a level playing field in a sea of privilege, even in the ’70s. Always there to help you understand the concepts he taught.” – Wendy Zambon

“In addition to a love of science, your dad’s legacy to me was that no curriculum is more important than the relationship I have with my students. He modeled for me that you always put in the effort to show students you care for them as human beings first! And I have been so blessed by that.” – Karen Pipp Wilson

L. Peter Johnson

“You were a great dad. I hope you and the gang have already golfed a round at Augusta, run the dogs and horses on hole 3, bunker jumped a few carts … we miss you, but know you are in a better place. I will make sure your girls are taken care of.” – Mike Walla

In addition to teaching in the classroom, Peter mentored and encouraged many students at Kingsford High School as ski team coach (15 years), activity director, Boys Hi-Y advisor and the sophomore class advisor for many years.

His lifelong dedication to excellence in the classroom culminated with his authoring of a book entitled “The Caring Teacher (Tips to Motivate Student Learning).” Copyright 2008 by Rowman & Littlefield Education. His closing ‘tip’ to the teachers he loved was, “Teach your students that when they serve others, raise a family in a safe and secure environment, encourage by their example, support a cause, pray for the unfortunate, love their neighbor and dream their dream – that is success.”

Peter was a loyal servant to His Lord as Elder of the First Presbyterian Church (Kingsford) and Leader in the Cursillo Movement and Youth Encounter weekends at MaryGrove Retreat Center.

Peter also devoted his time and spiritual gifts as a volunteer to the Dickinson County Jail Ministry for many years.

An avid golfer (with a smooth swing and steady putting stroke), he cherished all of his friends and golfing partners at Pine Grove Country Club for over 40 years. Especially Tom Martin, Dave Siegler and Mike Tomasoski.

Peter is survived by his loving wife Sunny, who God chose for him 53 years ago; daughters, Erin Walla of Kingsford and Jennifer (Nathan Cox) Johnson of Carbondale, Colo.; son-in-law, Mike Walla, who he loved like a son; granddaughter, Rebecca Skrobis of Milwaukee; grandson, Tyler Skrobis of Milwaukee; brother-in-law, Pat (Lovelyn) Hughes of Colorado; sister-in-law, Linda Hughes of Oklahoma; nieces, Shawn (Jim) Simpson, Angela VanDeVoort, and Shari Hughes; nephews, Brad (Maggie) Hughes, Stan (Deborah) Hughes, Adam (Jennifer) Hughes, and Bud Hughes.

Peter was especially proud of his many cousins in the Mellon Family. And Pete adored his faithful dogs, Brody and Beau, who stayed by his side throughout his illness.

He was preceded in death by his parents; Frederick and Lila (Mellon) Johnson; brother; Wayne Johnson; sisters-in-law, Donna Johnson and Bonnie Johnson; brother-in-law, Jerry Austin Hughes; niece, Shelly Johnson.

A celebration of the life of educator, author and friend, Peter Johnson, will be held on Monday, June 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church Pavilion, 395 Hamilton Ave., Kingsford. Refreshments and desserts will be served.

Parking in the Kingsford High School lot adjacent to the church property is available to all.

In lieu of flowers, and since his daughters completely dropped the ball as far as becoming scientists, a memorial scholarship fund has been established to support girls pursuing degrees in the S.T.E.M. education fields. Memorial gifts can be mailed to: DACF -Peter Johnson Scholarship Fund; 220A East Hughitt St.; Iron Mountain, MI 49801

The family has honored and entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home with the arrangements.