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Citizen of the Year
Former long-time mayor honored by Chamber of Commerce
The Citizen of the Year in the
Northville 4th of July parade this year
will be a familiar face to many in the
cheering crowds.
Chris Johnson, who served as
mayor of the City of Northville for 28
years, was chosen by the Chamber of
Commerce for the John Genitti
Citizen of theYear Award this year.
The award, which is based on an
individual's involvement and concern
for the community, and “being a role
model for community youth and citi-
zens” was presented to Johnson by
the Chamber of Commerce in
October. Johnson did not seek re-elec-
tion after serving as mayor of the city
since 1987. He was re-elected every
two year since then, until he opted
not to continue in the job.
Johnson was born in what was
West Berlin, Germany, the son of
Detroit natives, Thomas and Joan
Johnson. His father was stationed in
Germany with the U.S. Air Force at
the time but the family returned to
the U.S. in 1956. The family moved
from Detroit to Northville and
Johnson enrolled inNorthville Public
Schools. He was president of his 1973
graduating class.
Following his graduation, Johnson
attended the University of Michigan
working at Salem Hills Golf course to
fund his education. After graduation,
he earned his juris doctorate from the
See
Citizen,
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Chris Johnson
