William A. "B.J." Johnson, a lifelong resident of Big Rapids, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, August 5, 2024 at the age of 75. He was born October 4, 1948 in Big Rapids, the son of Elden and Eulalia (Butler) Johnson. After Bills graduation from Big Rapids High School, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, were he worked as a dog handler in the Military Police. Following his honorable discharge, Bill entered the police academy and soon after accepted a position with the Mecosta County Sheriffs Department. He worked as a Deputy Sheriff and was promoted to Sergeant. Bill retired after 29 years of service. Bill was an active member of the Big Rapids community. He was a life member of the Elks #974, Eagles Aerie #2535, V.F.W. Post #4102 and the AmVets Post #1941, all of Big Rapids. He was also a member of the American Legion #381 in Croton and the Moose Lodge #3705 in Reed City. Bill was an avid hunter and enjoyed golf and bowling. He was also a devout Notre Dame fan. Bill is survived by his wife, Claudia; three children, Natasha Johnson of Monticello, Iowa, William (Sara) Johnson Jr. of Holland, Michigan, Shawn (Ashley) Johnson of Oxford, Michigan; three step-children, Dorian (Tasha) Frazier of Independence, Missouri, Daniel (Tera) Frazier and Dylan (Ashley) Jehnzen, all of Kansas City, Missouri; grandchildren, Lily, Will, and Lucy Johnson, Dakota, Alexis, Pierce, Corbin and Rhett Frazier and Emmett Jehnzen; a great-grandson, Axel; and many nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his brother, Joe Johnson and three sisters, Jean Rardin, Betty Gilchrist and Arlene VanAlstine. Funeral services will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 12, 2024 at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids with an Elks Memorial Service and Military honors included. The family will greet friends on Sunday, August 11 at the funeral home from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Memorial contributions in Bills name may be made to the charity of the donors choice. Share a memory or condolence with the family at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com Funeral Service Monday, August 12, 2024 11:00 AM Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids,MI 49307 Visitation Sunday, August 11, 2024 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids,MI 49307