Norman Andrew Johnson

Norman Andrew Johnson was born on July 17, 1943, at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan. The second of four children of the late Barbara Ann (Doe) Johnson and John Johnson, Norman was educated in the Detroit Public Schools and graduated from Chadsey High School in 1961. He made his transition December 28, 2025.

While attending Chadsey, Norman distinguished himself as a remarkably talented swimmer. His skill in the sport was so exceptional that he was offered an athletic scholarship to Arizona State University. Swimming remained a lifelong passion—whether at home or on vacation, Norman would rise early to swim in any pool or ocean available, finding both peace and joy in the water.

Following high school, Norman began his working life as a driver with the Taystee Bread Company, where his congenial personality and tremendous work ethic quickly earned him respect. Never one to be without employment to take care of his family, whether he owned his cabs or working at Oak Park Public Schools after retirement.

In 1968, Norman answered the call to serve his country and was deployed to Vietnam, where he served as a combat troop during the height of the conflict. He vividly recalled the many firefights he endured and often proclaimed that one of the happiest days of his life was the day he shipped home—being discharged from Fort Dix, New Jersey, and returning to civilian life in Detroit. Proudly wearing his veteran’s baseball cap, Norman never met a fellow veteran he did not know. What often began as a brief greeting regularly turned into conversations lasting hours, bound by shared service and mutual respect.

Norman entered holy matrimony with Rose Johnson (nee “Williams”). From this union, a son, Christopher, was born. Rose made her transition in 1991. Norman was also blessed with a son, Brandon.

In 1999, Norman reconnected with Carol A. Marine, whom he had known in childhood but had never interacted closely. On that fateful day at a Coney Island on Southfield Rd, they reconnected. Norman told Carol he had been looking for her, and from that moment forward, they became inseparable. As they blended their families, their bond deepened into a 26-year love story, filled with laughter, companionship, and devotion. They traveled the world visiting exotic destinations, enjoyed watching classic western and war movies, participated in Chadsey Old Timers events, and often delighted in music—good-naturedly debating whose generation’s music was the best. Their bond endured, and they were united in marriage in 2019 during a private civil ceremony.

They especially enjoyed long drives together, listening to Watercolors, on the radio or sitting side by side in Norman’s “man cave,” surrounded by his vast collection of doo-wop favorites. Among his most cherished pieces was Norman’s favorite song, “Nessun Dorma,” performed by Luciano Pavarotti—a choice that surprised many who knew him. After hearing it while watching a featured program, Norman was so moved that he immediately insisted that Carol go out and buy the CD. Together, they spent countless hours listening to music, savoring both the melodies and the memories they created.

Norman cherished his Chadsey High School reunions, where he could often be found deep in conversation reminiscing about school days and the “old neighborhood,” laughing heartily as he shared stories of his many youthful antics.

Norman had a genuine love of laughter and was known for his quick wit, a gift that endured even as his health declined. He was often quick with a joke—laughing at himself and effortlessly making others laugh, bringing light and comfort to those around him.

Norman had a true zest for life and for his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He especially loved his time camping with Chris and talking football and debating the Detroit Lions with his son Brandon. He fondly remembered taking his twin grandsons Brandon and Brendon fishing for the very first time, a moment that brought him immense pride and joy. He delighted in picking up his granddaughter Morgan for days filled with fun at the arcade, nervously holding and feeding his granddaughter Kayla for the first time, and trying to keep up with his youngest grandson Karter ran, climbed on the furniture, and jumped into his lap. When Brooke, Ronald, and Ryan visited, Norman often took them out for their favorite Superman ice cream, always making sure he received an extra-large serving for himself.

Norman treasured family birthday celebrations, graduations, and outdoor barbecues with his sisters, niece, and brother-in-law, who lovingly reminded him of his many antics over the years. Those gatherings often ended with Norman happily satisfying his sweet tooth with the largest piece of dessert for himself.

Norman was a gentleman in every sense of the word, always ready with a kind word of encouragement, a thoughtful observation, or quiet wisdom. He was a steady presence and a quiet force to be reckoned with.

Norman leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Carol Ann Marine; two sons, Christopher Johnson and Brandon Johnson; sisters Patricia Cooley, Deborah Cain, and Jacqueline Ellis (David); five grandchildren, Brandon Johnson, Brendon Johnson, Morgan Williams, Kayla Johnson, and Karter Johnson; stepchildren, Ronald (Carole) Marine and Lynn (Anthony) Adams, grandchildren, Brooke, Ronald and Ryan Marine, niece, Stacy Ellis, nephews; and many close personal friends.