Clifton F. Johnson

Clifton F. “Tooter” Johnson, age 86 of Mishawaka, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. Cliff was born April 5, 1938, in Charleroi, Pennsylvania to the late John and Ida Mae (Heaney) Kunkle. He was a graduate of Mishawaka High School, class of 1956. After graduation, Cliff heard the call of his country and enlisted in the US Navy where he served honorably aboard the USS Vermillion.  On May 11, 1992, he married Mary Hoover in Seattle, Washington, and they celebrated nearly 32 years of marriage before Cliff’s passing.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Johnson of Mishawaka, and his children David (Rebecca) Johnson of Kenosha, Wisconsin, Denise (Patrick) Chatman and Randy (Kelleen) Hoover, both of South Bend. Surviving as well are his grandchildren Roxanne (Jason) Johnson, Laura (Brandon) Prochaska, Patrick Chatman Jr., Danielle Chatman, Kyle (Samantha) Chatman, Clifton Anthony (Deven) Johnson, Laura Hoover and Jacob Hoover and his great-grandchildren Raena Prochaska, Mark Prochaska, Isacc Chatman, Natalie Chatman, Zoey Chatman, Madeline Johnson, Lily Johnson and MacKenzie Aaron. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Johnson and his great granddaughter Kayla Johnson.

A Rosary service will be held at 3:30 pm Monday, May 6, 2024, followed by visitation from 4-7 pm on Monday, May 6, 2024, at Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home in Mishawaka.  There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the 11 am Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at St. Monica Catholic Church in Mishawaka. Cliff will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park at a later date.

From 1960 to 2006, he owned and managed the Twin City Mobile Home Court, leaving a lasting impact on the area. Renowned for his resourcefulness, Cliff was known as a "jack of all trades" with an ability to repair anything that came his way. He was a longtime member of the VFW Post 360 of Mishawka and St. Monica Catholic Church.

His commitment to our community extended beyond his business, as he dedicated his time to the youth of our area as President of both the North Side Little League and the St. Monica Athletic Association for many years. Sports held a special place in Cliff's heart, and he was an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs baseball and Notre Dame football teams. In his spare time, Cliff had an eye for antiques and a passion for woodworking. His talent in refurbishing and refinishing fine furniture was unmatched, leaving behind pieces of enduring beauty.

Characterized by his generosity, compassion, and unwavering faith, Cliff will be remembered as a hard worker who approached life with dedication and kindness. Above all, he was a devoted husband and an exemplary father, leaving an indelible mark on his children's lives. His love extended to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom he cherished deeply.

Cliff also loved animals, especially his dogs. In his memory, donations may be made to the Pet Refuge or the Center for Hospice. To light a virtual candle, share a story of Cliff’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.