Obituary of Michael Johnson

Michael Neil Johnson (Tank) passed away on Saturday, February 15, one day before his 72nd birthday under the angelic care of Niagara Hospice. Born on February 16, 1953 in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Neil and Jane (Williams) Johnson.

One of Michael's favorite songs was Frank Sinatra's "My Way" and Michael certainly lived up to those lyrics. He was a strong willed individual who always had an eye out for the next adventure. Whether it was a new job, a new place to live, or simply a new place for a quick visit, Michael managed to squeeze a lot of living into his time on earth.

Many of the people reading this will no doubt have fond memories of spending time at Tank's Tavern where everyone knew your name and his practice New Year's Eve parties were legendary.

One of Michael's greatest pleasures was playing Santa Claus during each Christmas Season. The sparkle in his eye and his belly laugh put the fake Santa's to shame.

Michael was also very proud of being a Niagara Wheatfield graduate. He was appreciative of his 1971 N.W. classmates who went out of their way to visit him in Lockport and then convinced him to attend their 50 year class reunion where he received his prized "Once a Falcon Always A Falcon Shirt". If you are one of those classmates please know your efforts made a difference. Thank you!

Perhaps you ran into Michael at one of the Monday Night Concerts in the Town of Niagara.  Michael would arrive early and set up shop by the sidewalk with Sue where he could greet and visit with old friends as they passed by. He really looked forward to those concerts and hated when they were rained out.

Or maybe you were entertained this past summer as Michael attempted to visit every inch of WNY despite being wheelchair bound and insisting on being independent. He went everywhere from the Buffalo Harbor to Niagara Falls, Youngstown, Barker and everywhere in between by bus and then posted photos and brief recap of his latest adventure. Those trips would have been a challenge by car but Michael wanted to do it his way.

Of course, anyone who knew Michael knew how much he loved the New York Yankees and the Buffalo Bills. Don't be surprised if the Bills finally win the Super Bowl next year with Michael smiling down from above. One of the highlights of his life was finally seeing the Yankee in person in Toronto last summer and having Aaron Judge hit a homerun in the first inning.

Michael is survived by his siblings Larry (Ann) Johnson, Dan (Mary) Johnson and Sue Bailie and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

In keeping with Michael's generous nature, he asked to have his body donated to the UB Medical School. A celebration of his life will be held at some point in the future at the discretionof the family. If desired, memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Hospice.