David Elton Johns' Obituary
David Elton Johns, 83, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026. Born on December 11, 1942, he was the beloved son of the late Hazel and Richard Johns.
Dave was a proud member of the UAW, working as a tool and die maker at the Chevy plant in Parma for over 40 years. An accomplished metal and wood worker, he created beautiful homegoods for practically everyone in the extended family. Dave volunteered his time and skill to many local organizations, like the zoo, the library, and the church, but the majority of his charity work was at the service of his beloved wife, Marjorie June (nee) Kopcok, to whom he was married and devoted for over 50 years. Margie kept Dave busy delivering gifts and baked goods to family gatherings, working as the local handyman for any neighbor in need, and crafting many amazing home enhancements. Perhaps Dave’s proudest accomplishment was the beautiful home he provided and improved for Margie and their children, Jennifer Linville (Joe) and James Johns.
David was the proud grandfather to Courtney Linville and a delighted great‑grandfather to Chloe Tyrer. He is survived by his sister, Sharon Tennison. He was preceded in death by his siblings Frank Johns, Bob Johns, and Janet Albertus. He held his parents and siblings with deep devotion and love in his heart. He was close with his siblings and their children - Wendy and Gary, Cindy and Tommy, Kandy and Don, and Randy Albertus and their families- staying involved with everyone’s life and always ready to help a relative in need.
In addition to blood relatives, Dave was devoted to Margie’s family, forming a special bond with Margie’s sister’s husband, Norman Berghaus. Norm and Julianne’s house was a place that Dave was in his element - waxing philosophical about music and God, enjoying the company of his niece and nephews and their families - John, Scott (deceased) and Diane, Mark and Lisa, Michael and Tammy, and Heidi and Jim Fravel offering his good humor to all.
A lifelong learner, Dave went to bible studies at denominations other than his own, signed up for many classes at the local university, and watched every documentary that Ken Burns made. He had a special fascination for history, about which he was an armchair scholar.
He loved the Cleveland Indians, tolerated the Browns, and was apathetic about the Cavs.
Above all, Dave was charming, witty, outrageously funny, and an all around delightful human being to spend time with. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.
A memorial celebration will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Cleveland APL in David’s honor.
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