Kathleen Johnson

Kathleen Orbell Johnson, 93 ½, passed away peacefully in the Howard Young Medical Center in Woodruff, Wisconsin on Friday, Sept 17 at 10:10am. Clarence, her husband of 69 ½ years, and her sons, Warren and Roger, were with her at her passing. Kathleen was born in Winnebago, Minnesota on February 14, 1917 to Harry Orbell and Sarah Elizabeth Edwards. She married Clarence Henry Johnson Jr. on June 15, 1941 in Elmhurst, Illinois. They began their marriage with a two week camping honeymoon in the Rocky Mountain National Park, fondly remembered for the two blowouts and four tire punctures they experienced during the trip, and which began their life-long tradition of camping and travel. They raised their two sons in Elmhurst, Illinois and the family spent one year, 1952, living in Casablanca, Morocco while Clarence was stationed there with the US Air Force. Kathleen was a wife, mother and homemaker. In addition, she also worked for the US Postal Service until she retired. She was active in the United Church of Christ Women’s Guild until Clarence retired and they moved to Presque Isle, Wisconsin in 1976. In Presque Isle, she became an active member in the Snow Bunnies and Lioness. She enjoyed traveling, particularly trips to visit her father's family in England. Her life revolved around her husband and family. She was loved and admired by family, friends, and all who knew her for her gentle, loving and supportive manner. She was an example of her Christian beliefs in her daily life with a kind word for everyone. Kathleen is survived by her husband Clarence; her two sons: Warren (Barbara) of Mercer, Wi. and his two sons; and Roger (Carol) of Logan, Ut., his 19 children and his 51 grandchildren. She is also survived by sisters Evelyn Karlson, Clintonville, Wi.; Karol McCormick (Jim), Hinsdale, Il.; and Sarah Pine, Waukegan, Il.; a brother, Jack Orbell, Monet, Mo.; sisters-in-law Evelyn Galbraith, Boulder Jct,Wi.; Virginia Bond, Roswell, NM.; and brother-in-law David Rosol, La Grange Park, Il. She was also a treasured aunt to 28 nieces and nephews. Her presence will be missed, but is softened by the memories of her life and the example she set. All who knew Kathleen will miss her and treasure the loving memories they have of her. She has truly been a blessing in all our lives. Memorial services are being held at the Manitowish Waters Community Presbyterian Church at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept 21st. Reverend Chips Paulson officiating. The church is on Highway 51 at Marathon Road just south of Highway W. Her family requests that any memorial contributions be given to Alzheimer's support organizations in your community.

Kathleen Johnson

February 14, 1917 - September 17, 2010