William "Bill" Burton Johnson

William "Bill" Johnson, a cherished soul in the lives of many, passed away on December 2, 2025, in Southfield, Michigan. Born on March 18, 1942, Bill’s life was a vibrant tapestry woven with adventure, passion, and an unwavering devotion to his family.

Raised in Livonia on Brookfield Street, Bill embarked on a journey filled with remarkable experiences. His adventures included piloting his beloved Piper Tri-Pacer from Mettetal Airport to a number of locations where he could share all the world had to offer with his family. After he conquered the airspace, he embarked on his next chapter on the water. What he loved the most was spending time with his family and sharing his passions with his children. Spending summers on his boat, the Just Dessert, and braving Lake Superior to travel and explore Isle Royale where he and his family took nothing but (lots and lots of) pictures and left nothing but footprints. If he was not on the water fishing, he might be in it looking for fish while scuba diving. While his love for his family was abundant, his love for the Detroit Red Wings was not far behind. Those within earshot during hockey season could keep score simply by listening for Bill to cheer or yell out whenever each team would score a goal. If he wasn't at the Joe for a game during the winter months, you might find him zipping through the trees of the Upper Peninsula and Northern Ontario on snowmobiles with his son.

His adventurous spirit led him to discover and share so many hobbies with the ones he loved. Bill immersed himself in every pursuit, embracing the thrill of the moment.

His mother, Margaret Mercedes Phelps, founded The Karas House in 1954. By 1980, he had taken the helm of the family business where he then expanded to include Burton Manor in Livonia and Roma Banquets in Garden City. He took pride in exceeding his customers’ expectations.

Affectionately known as “Uncle Bill Ice Cream,” he was adored by many nieces and nephews. Most notably, Bill was a loving family man who created wonderful memories with his grandchildren—Alyssa, Parker, Joshua, Hannah, Sophia, Hunter, and Adeline—whose laughter and joy he held close to his heart.

Bill is survived by his siblings, Laura, and Matt, and the late Alice, Michael, Mary, Larry, and Daniel; his children, Mark, Suzanne, Melissa, Jessica, and Brianna; along with a host of family and friends whose lives were enriched by his presence.

A memorial service to honor Bill's legacy will be held on December 14, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at R.G. & G.R. Harris Funeral Home located at 15451 Farmington Rd, Livonia, Michigan. For those who loved him will gather to celebrate his extraordinary life.