Gerald (Jerry) Johnson

Gerald (Jerry) Lee Johnson (son of Bernard & Alberta Johnson) passed away Sunday, March 5th, 2023 in southern California. He and his wife, Pat, resided in Menifee, CA. Jerry is survived by his wife Patricia (Hartley) Johnson whom he shared an extraordinary love and friendship; daughter, Lesli Johnson; son, Brett Johnson (wife Colleen); stepsons Eric Hartley and Jake Scheideman; and grandchildren Bradi Johnson, Christopher Hartley and Amanda Scheideman. Born September 29, 1940 in Rockford IL, Jerry spent much of his early life in Rockford, raising a family with his first wife, Linda (Johnson) Wetzel. Jerry strived to create wonderful memories with family and friends. Jerry worked his entire career in the Tool & Die industry in Rockford, Crawfordsville, IN and California. For the past 38 years, Jerry called California his home. If you knew Jerry this was the perfect environment for one of his passions – Sunday golf. However, each Sunday during the NFL season, it played havoc in his ability to watch his favorite team, The Green Bay Packers. Sunday’s post-game Jerry and Brett would get on a cross-country phone call and recount touchdowns and fumbles. Jerry was passionate about many things, including his family, golfing, bowling and his friends. Known as “JJ” to many, Jerry had friends he met in grade school! After moving to California, Jerry frequented Rockford to see his lifelong friends and enjoy his favorite midwest treats: Cream Puffs, Mrs. Fisher’s Chips, Maid-Rites, Swedish Pancakes and Kringle’s from WI. Jerry had a wonderful ability to make everyone feel special and part of the family and in turn, he was part of theirs. He was the consummate host, toasting with Tom & Jerry’s during the holidays, and the traveling “Grandpa with the Beard.” Grandpa taught Bradi how to bake holiday cookies her first 17 Christmases! Jerry also had a commitment to volunteer work and giving back. Early on he volunteered at Trinity Lutheran Church (Rockford) and served as a swim meet coordinator (Rockford Marlins). Later in life he coordinated golf events at the Menifee Lakes Golf Club & Community. He will be missed by so many.