Michael Johnson was an omnipresent volunteer, coach, friend, cheerleader, dog-lover, creator, giver extraordinaire — and as everyone said — much beloved. The Downtown Issaquah Association recently honored his memory with an art-on-canvas portrait with his dog, Kendra, created by local artist, Gail Baker (see her story, below.) The canvas is hanging in the window of Fischer’s Meats. Fitting, since Fischer’s has its own community renown. Always seen with his many dogs (Kendra the latest), Michael’s heart filled up the entire downtown. Once called “King Sammamish” because of his benevolence knew no bounds, Michael was an avid photographer and massage therapist.

Michael nurtured his creative passions, patients, and especially his community. But it was in 1999 that he discovered his true passion while joining forces with the Downtown Issaquah Association to grow downtown into a vibrant artist community. ArtWalk Issaquah took root in 2006 under his leadership. It continued to flourish pre-pandemic and will be back. That and other art programs formed the foundation for what is now a powerful arts proliferation in the area. Music, Art and saving the Downtown Issaquah Trolley are the legacies you read about Michael, but those who know him best cite his decency, humanity and large heart.
“A Local Treasure”

In the last years of his life, Michael’s friends rallied to help with medical expenses through a fundraiser called Hearts for Michael. Friends vowed he would never be forgotten. “Michael befriended every neighbor, stranger, musician and artist for miles around. He taught me to value people and community, to do it in laughter and share the fun.

“Thanks so much for memorializing one of the finest humans I’ve had the pleasure of knowing!”
—Lauree Whitaker

DIA ED
Author: DIA ED

Historically Hip Downtown