Van Alan Johnson was born to George Johnson and Agnes Johnson-Nelson in Cleveland, Ohio on May 24, 1963. He departed his life tragically on December 10, 2017. Van accepted Christ at a young age and attended Community Baptist Church in Cleveland, Ohio. He later moved to Columbus and attended Faith Ministries, Christian Assembly and at the time of his death he was the head of ushers, greeters, and security at Victorious Life Christian Center, while teaching the new members class as well.
He attended several Cleveland Public Schools for elementary, middle, and high school. He graduated from Euclid High in 1981. He attended Cleveland State University and received a Bachelors of Science in Civil Engineering in June, 1988.
Van held several positions in engineering and inspections at various companies including ODOT, Terracon, Barr Engineering, and others. He also held positions in other areas and substitute taught at Columbus City Schools during his slow seasons in engineering. At the time of his death he was employed at Prime Engineering as a project manager and driving Uber in the evenings. Those were two jobs he really loved. Van loved the Cleveland Browns, Cavs, Indians, to exercise, and have fun. He had a giving heart and would help anyone in need.
Van is preceded in death by his mother Agnes Johnson-Nelson.
He leaves to mourn his death, his father, George Johnson; wife of 27 years, Lisa Johnson; children, Emmanuel (Lyndsey), and Elyzabeth; two grandchildren whom he adored, Aubrey (5yrs), and Cameron (20 months); two brothers, Donald Johnson (South Carolina) and Lester Johnson (Columbus, OH.); two very close friends who were like brothers, Stephen (Breena) and Harland (Lisa); and a host of cousins, other relatives and friends. He was affectionately known as “Umple Ban” to many young people.
~Visitation~ 11:00am
~Service~ 12:00 Noon
MONDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2017 ~ 12:00 PM
Faith Ministries
2747 Agler Road
Columbus, Ohio
To the family of Van Johnson i send
my condolences and prayers.
Judy Bolding
Retired Odot Employee
Sending prayers of peace, love and healing for the Johnson family and friends.
To the family of Van, you have my deepest sympathy in your loss. Death is one of the most difficult situations families must face. It hurts so much when the family circle has been broken but be assured that it is only temporary. By means of God’s Kingdom, He promises at Revelation 21:4, “And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.
My Dear Lisa.. words could never express my feelings
I’m truly saddened for you and your loss. Van was a great guy and will be missed . I pray that God will give you peace and restore your Joy. May God bless you and your family.
My prayers and condolences are with the family as they embark upon one of life’s most painful journeys. I remember Van from Iowa Maple and growing up of course. Van was always a Gentleman, and I will remember him as such…… The Haines Family
sending prayers to the johnson family…van was my best friend of over 40 years…glad i got to hang out briefly with my friend one more time…R I H van johnson
hardo harris……
Johnson Family and Friends,
I graduated with Van at Euclid in 1981 and he was always a kind, thoughtful and considerate. My sincere condolences to each and every one of you. May God give you strength, courage, and stamina to transition during this time of your loss.
Yvette Sayles(Watkins)
I can’t believe this tragedy. I worked with him many years at some of the high schools in Columbus. He always had a smile on his face and a kind word. Praying for his family and he will truly be missed. He was one of the best guys I knew. God bless
To the family of Van, you have my prayers and deepest condolences. I remember Van as one of the little boys in the neighborhood that played with my brother Gary. We all had fun growing up on 131 & Arlington in Cleveland Ohio. To Mr. George, Donald and Lester I am so sorry for your loss. I didn’t see Van anymore once we all grew up but to his wife and children I wish you all the healing that the Lord can provide during this time. May God Keep all of You!
Dear Lisa and kids –
I am so sad about Van’s passing. He was such a kind man, always concerned about others and quick to give words of encouragement. May the Lord comfort you and give you the grace and help you need.
Dear Lisa, my heart goes out for my step brother Van. I only regret that i did get a chance to visit prior to his death. I HOPE TO MEET THE GRAND KIDS AND YOU SOON. your family in Cleveland Ohio
Miss you grandpa