JOHNSON, Stephen M.

The Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 4, 2003 Stephen M. Johnson, 54, a joker to the end, passed quietly in - the arms of his wife, Sandra, on April Fools Day, 2003, from overwhelming complications of a long-fought illness. Born in Phoenix, reared in Tempe, he recently repatriated after 16 years in California. A strong personality with a gentle heart, he will be missed by many that he loved so well, including his kidlings George & Gaye Johnson of Australia, Alicia & Scott Richardson of Tempe, & Julia & Jason Skipper of Tempe; his beloved grandkids Sheree, Liam, Michael, Ashley, Darien, Mike, Aaron, & Jaina; his mother, Mrs. Bob Svob of Tempe; his in-laws, Joe & Jean Salz of Sun City; & a multitude of siblings, nieces, nephews, & friends. Steve was a master at all he did: mechanics, electrician, Hardcore Softball coach/manager, and sculptor. Rosary & Memorial Service Friday 4/4/03, 4 PM at his home. A Viet Vet, ashes will be interred with Honors at National Cemetery, Phoenix. Donations can be made in lieu of flowers to the Arizona Kidney Foundation. Courtesy of Pat Wilson.