VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – Michael “Mike” Charles Johnson died peacefully in his home in Virginia Beach, Va. on June 30, 2021.

He was born on June 19, 1948 in Norfolk, Va. to Charles E. Johnson and Anna M. (Ciampi) Johnson. Mike attended school in Virginia Beach and graduated from Virginia Beach High School in 1966. He studied at Old Dominion University, and then embarked on his lifelong career as a marine engineer at Calhoun (MEBA) Engineering School in Baltimore, graduating in January 1970.

Mike had a long, distinguished career working for various companies including U.S. Lines and Sea-Land Services. Mike retired from shipping in 1996, but could not completely leave the sea behind. He continued working as a port engineer for Patriot Marine Services. Mike’s expertise was respected and his friendship valued by those he met traveling the world.

Although Mike’s immediate family resides in Maine, he considered Virginia Beach, Va. to be his home. His successful career allowed him to retire early and have time to pursue new interests and enjoy his friends and North End home. He liked biking and watersports, such as boating, fishing, and windsurfing. He traveled with friends to snow ski and became an avid golfer, playing many of the country’s finest golf courses.

Gardening, woodworking, and home improvement were his hobbies. Mike was an accomplished handyman and spent many hours in his garage workshop completing projects. He had a tool for every task and was always available to share his skills with neighbors and friends.

Mike had a particularly long and lasting relationship with several families, among them the Todd, Bates, Mills, MacDonald, and Thorpe families. He was regularly included in their families’ celebrations and daily lives. Mike was a kind, generous, and loyal friend who will be greatly missed.

Mike was predeceased by his parents; and sister, Patricia A. Johnson.

He will be lovingly remembered by his sister, Charleen Russell and husband Stephen of Standish, his brothers Gregory M. Johnson of Portland and Joseph A. Johnson of Waterboro; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial gathering will be held at a later date.

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