Melvin "Mel" Johnson

Melvin Edward Johnson, 73 of Mishawaka, IN passed away on Monday, October 27, 2025 surrounded by his family at Center for Hospice Care- Ernestine Raclin House in Mishawaka, IN. Mel was born on January 19, 1952 to Melvin Harvey Edward and Henrietta Johnson, in New Albany, IN. Mel married Derinda Sue Thomas on November 20, 1971 in South Bend, IN, to this marriage they have two wonderful children Jamie and Brian.

Mel graduated from LaSalle High School in South Bend, IN., class of 1970. He was a member of IBEW local 153. He worked at North American Signs as a neon sign tube bender and most recently he was a driver for AE Techron in Elkhart. Mel owned Mel’s Custom Cycle World. He enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson Motorcycle and had a special love for classic cars. He also enjoyed playing the drums. Mel enjoyed working at Barnaby’s Pizza alongside the owner and his best friend Mike Lane. In his spare time, he enjoyed tinkering on projects around the house and doing woodworking projects, he was always up for the challenge. Mel was a family man; he loved to spend time with his family and friends. Mel coached at East End Little League, when his children were younger. He never missed a game for his children or grandchildren. Even when times were tight, Mel always found a way to provide for his family whatever they needed. He will be sadly missed.

Mel is survived by his wife of over 53 years, Derinda Johnson, their children Jamie L. Cress of Mishawaka, IN and Brian E. (Catherine Atchison) Johnson of Tulsa, OK; grandchildren Chelsea Johnson and Michael ( Jessica Candelaria) Cress; great-grandchildren Serenity and Noah Cress, sister Brenda Rogers and his nieces, nephews and in-laws. Mel was preceded in death by his parents, sister Doris J. Turner and brother William D. Milan.

A time to gather and celebrate Mel’s life will be held from 2-5 pm on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home, 1531 Cobblestone Blvd., Elkhart, IN 46514. Mel will be laid to rest at Fairview Cemetery in Mishawaka, IN. Memorial donations in memory of Mel may be made to American Cancer Society donate.cancer.org or Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, 11550 North Meridian Street, Carmel, IN 46032. Online condolences may be made to Mel's family at www.stemmlawsonpeterson.com