Derek Everett Johnson

Derek Everett Johnson, age 49, passed away on April 16, 2024, at his residence in Petoskey. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by his family. 

Derek was born on Dec. 24, 1974, at Marquette General Hospital in Marquette, Michigan, to Lyn and Jean Ann Johnson. He was one of six children: twin brothers Jeffrey and Jason, brother Matthew, sister Julianne, and brother Scott. Derek and his family grew up in Grosse Ile and Petoskey, Michigan. He graduated from Petoskey High School, class of 1993. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in 2002 from Madonna University and his Master of Social Work degree from Michigan State University in 2007. Derek enjoyed boating, baseball, Michigan State University athletics, the Detroit Tigers and Disney World, a treasured family connection for the Johnsons. 

He was an avid hunter and fisherman known for his wit, sense of humor, and his intelligence. His most precious moments were spent with his children, daughter Alyvia Ann and son Everett Cyler Johnson. He coached Little League when his children were younger. Derek was always there for his family and is remembered for being the life of the party at all get-togethers. He was proud of his work counseling others in suicide prevention, and his family takes comfort knowing he helped numerous people in times of crisis. 

Derek is survived by his mother, Jean Ann Johnson; children, Alyvia Ann and Everett Cyler Johnson of Petoskey, and their mother, Kelly Johnson; his siblings, Jeffrey, Matthew, Julianne, and Scott; his aunts, Karen Seabolt and Judy Niemi; niece, Preslee Johnson; as well as many cousins and close friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Lyn, in 2014, and infant brother, Jason, in 1973. 

A celebration of life will take place from 2:00 to 4:00 PM on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at the Marriott Hotel in Petoskey. Donation information for honoring Derek’s memory will be available at the memorial. Please sign the guestbook below.