Michael Herbert Johnson

Michael Herbert Johnson, affectionately known as 'Big Mike' or 'Big Heavy', was born on February 16, 1953 in Baltimore, Maryland and passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025 in Taneytown, Maryland.

The son of the late Herbert and Lorraine Johnson, Mike grew up with a strong work ethic and an even stronger presence. He was a man of deep conviction, the kind who believed in showing love through hard work, loyalty, and laughter.

Mike was the proud owner of Associated Excavators, a company he built and ran for over 30 years. Whether he was behind the wheel of a backhoe, a dozer, or a loader, he worked with steady hands and was extremely prideful. His craft wasn’t just his livelihood, it was his legacy.

He was married to the late Sheryl Johnson, and together they built a life centered on family, laughter, and grit. Mike is survived by his children Amy Middleton (Daniel), Priscilla Matthews (Gerald), and Michael A. Johnson (Megan). He was a devoted and proud grandfather to Cameron and Morgan, who brought light and joy to his later years.

Those who knew Mike will remember his unmistakable laugh, his straightforward wisdom, and his signature phrase: “It is what it is.” He lived life with the same rugged honesty as Popeye, whose tattoo he proudly wore on his forearm. Like Popeye, Mike stood firm in who he was “I am what I am.” His “Big Heavy” tattoo on his back said it all, he was larger than life, through and through.

He leaves behind not only the marks of his machines but also the deep impression of his strength, humor, and love on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A viewing will be held on Monday from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m. at HARRY H. WITZKE'S FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 4112 Old Columbia Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21043. The Funeral Service will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m., followed by the burial at 12:30 p.m. at Crestlawn Memorial Gardens in Marriottsville. A repass will follow at the American Legion on Slack Road in Sykesville.

A celebration of Mike’s life will be filled with stories, laughter, and memories, just the way he would have wanted.

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