Richard Michael Johnson

Richard Michael Johnson, a cherished individual known for his resilience, kindness, and passion for life, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026, in Clewiston, Florida, under God's care. Born on February 19, 1967, in Harvey, Illinois, Rick's life was a testament to strength and inspiration.

Rick’s early years were marked by hands-on work and dedication. From the age of 13 until he was 36, he served as a mechanic and tow truck driver. Although he retired from this line of work due to medical reasons, his drive and spirit led him to pursue a new path. He embarked on a career as a Sales, Mortgage Loan & Insurance Agent, where he applied his sharp mind and engaging personality to help others. His formative education included earning an Associates Degree from Prairie State College, which contributed to his professional foundation.

A lifelong aficionado of the automotive world, Rick inherited a profound love for muscle cars, pro street cars, and custom cars from his father, a noted pro drag racer. This passion fueled many joyful moments throughout his life. Complementing his enthusiasm for vehicles was his deep love for music. Rick cultivated an impressive collection of vinyl records and cassette tapes, with a special fondness for heavy metal, although his musical taste was diverse and eclectic.

Rick was widely admired for his unwavering sense of humor and positivity, traits that shone brightly even in the face of disability, Cerebral Palsy, subset Spastic Diplegia. He was a kind and inspirational figure to those around him, always finding the brighter side of life’s challenges. This optimism endeared him to many and left a lasting impression on friends and family. Rick found humor in everything. Rick was hilarious. Rick never met a stranger he did not treat as a friend. Rick had a huge circle of friends that loved him tremendously! There are many who cared and helped Rick when needed.

He is lovingly remembered by his sisters, Vikki Gardner (Chris) and Tammy Hoover (Jerry), who carry forward his memory with deep affection. Rick was a uncle to 3 nephews and 5 nieces. Rick was a great uncle to 8 nieces and 9 nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy "Dianne" Johnson, his father, Robert K. Johnson, Sr., and his brother, Robert K. Johnson, Jr., whose legacies remain intertwined with his own.

Richard Michael Johnson's life journey reflected a blend of courage, warmth, and dedication. His passing marks the loss of a remarkable soul whose influence will continue to inspire all who knew him. The community and family who embraced him hold his memory dear, honoring a man who lived with heart, humor, and strength.

Donations can be made to the following charities on Rick's behalf:

• 1. On the obituary page you can donate a tree or flower in Rick Johnson's name: https://store.condolences.com/.../4b1927a2-1a3b.../trees... 
• 2. South Suburban Human Society in Matteson: https://southsuburbanhumane.org 
• 3. The Wild Cat Sanctuary in Minnesota: https://www.wildcatsanctuary.org 
• 4. You can also plant a tree or plant in your own yard as remembrance of Rick. 
• 
  

Rick is being cremated. There will be no funeral services held at this time. A Celebration of Life for Rick Johnson will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at the VFW located at 2125 Gettler Street, Dyer, Indiana. Chef Tony, who operates the kitchen at the facility, will be catering the event with appetizers and snacks. The celebration will be from noon until 5pm.