A LIFE WELL LIVED

By HQ Staff

Johnson

In the quiet corners of Ohio, where echoes of cheers for the Bowling Green University Falcons fill the air, Neil Johnson Bowling Green ’91 lived for hockey, camping and his cherished affiliation with Phi Kappa Psi. And it was Phi Psi that motivated Neil’s commitment to volunteerism and inspired a quiet, solid and everlasting commitment to the brotherhood.   

Neil earned a bachelor’s in business administration from Bowling Green State University. He worked as the Director of Information Services for Jones and Henry Engineers in Toledo, reflecting a professional life marked by excellence.    

Neil’s sister, Lona Leck, reflects on her perception of fraternity life. “Neil’s passing redefined my understanding of fraternity,” she said. “It goes beyond the social aspects because of the capacity for lifelong bonds.”   

For Neil, it was clear it did go beyond the social aspects. The call to serve others was strong, and Neil dedicated significant time not just to Phi Psi but to other interests. Neil volunteered at Camp Mowana, showcasing the joy he found in both the exhilaration of sports and the serenity of nature. His eclectic interests, from “Jeopardy” to collecting college mascots, painted a picture of a man whose zest for life was as diverse as the experiences he embraced.   

Described by Lona as someone “willing to do the work that needs to be done,” Neil’s commitment to service extended seamlessly from his professional life into his role as chapter advisor for Ohio Zeta. His calm demeanor and willingness to roll up his sleeves made him a steadfast and invaluable advisor to the chapter.   

No one really knew but Neil, but in life, he planned to continue to give to Phi Psi after his death. In his forward-thinking generosity, Neil used his life insurance and retirement account to establish a fund with the Phi Psi Foundation dedicated to ongoing chapter advisor education. This initiative ensures that the next generation of Phi Psis will have mentors and advisors, continuing the lifelong chain of brotherhood that Neil passionately believed in.   

“He was so much fun to be around,” said Hal Dick Bowling Green ’55. “[Neil] was my friend and my brother.”   

As we bid farewell to Neil, we honor what he did for Phi Psi and his legacy. We carry forward the torch of volunteerism, mentorship and brotherhood that he so passionately lit. In the tapestry of Phi Kappa Psi, Neil’s thread remains woven, a shining example of a life well lived in service to others.

Left to Right: Alex Vail Bowling Green ‘15, Kyle Loney Bowling Green ‘16, Brother Johnson, Benjamin Sigler Bowling Green ‘10 and Brian Kochheiser Bowling Green ‘12 at WWLS in 2017.

Neil entered Chapter Eternal January 26, 2023. If you would like to honor Neil’s legacy or would like to support the continuing education of our Chapter Advisors, please make a charitable contribution to the Neil Johnson Chapter Advisor Fellowship Fund at www.pkpfoundation.org.