Obituary: JoAnn Lillian Johnson

JoAnn Lillian Johnson, age 80, of Carlton, Minnesota and previously of Vilonia, Arkansas died on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2022. She was born on Oct. 13, 1941, to Edgar and Bonnie (Annis) Stavang in Carlton. She was a proud Wrenshall Wren, being a cheerleader, majorette, and the 1959 Homecoming Queen. During her career, she worked as a legal secretary at Indian Legal Assistance and night-time waitress at the Country Kitchen. She was united in marriage to Henry “Hank” Johnson in Wrenshall. JoAnn and Hank frequently traveled to Arkansas and so treasured their time there that they eventually made it their home.

After her husband passed away, she moved to Pine View in Carlton where she always looked forward to game nights and watching “The Price Is Right” with her friends. She appreciated being “in the loop” on current events and local happenings. JoAnn was a member of the VFW 8th district and Post 2962 Auxiliary, serving a presidency term for both. She enjoyed an occasional trip to the casino playing video poker, eating, and cashing in points for “free gifts.” She also enjoyed playing bingo and pull-tabs. JoAnn made many memories camping at Bent Trout Lake in Mahtowa, Minnesota with friends. JoAnn’s grandchildren were her pride and joy; she loved supporting them at various sports games and activities.

JoAnn’s family would like to extend a special thank you to St. Luke’s Oncology Team, St. Croix Hospice, and the many people that checked on her regularly.

She is survived by her daughter, Lori (Nathan) Bandelin of Hibbing, Minnesota; step-sons, Brian “Bubba” Johnson and Jim Johnson; step-daughter, Tammy (Aaron) Churness; grandchildren, RaeAnn (Rob) Manning, Joseph (Jessica) Laveau, Mary Laveau, Alex (Brianna) Laveau, Darrin (Laynie) Henderson, Tyler Johnson, Katelin (Laine) Johnson, Alec Churness, and Emma Churness; 13 great-grandchildren; brother, Jerry (Marcia) Stavang of Wrenshall; sister, Judy Johnson of Wrenshall; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Kevin “Rocky” Henderson; step-son, Hankie Johnson; son-in-law, Alex “Joe” Laveau; and brother-in-law, Dwayne Johnson.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, Oct. 1, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Silver Brook Town Hall in Wrenshall, Minnesota (401 Alcohol Road).