Obituary: JoAnn Lillian Johnson

JoAnn Lillian Johnson, 80, of Carlton, formerly of Vilonia, Arkansas, died Sept. 20, 2022. She was born Oct. 13, 1941, to Edgar and Bonnie (Annis) Stavang in Carlton. A proud Wrenshall Wren, she was a cheerleader, majorette, and the 1959 homecoming queen. During her career she worked as a legal secretary at Indian Legal Assistance and night-shift 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 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 with friends at Bent Trout Lake in Mahtowa. 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 the St. Luke's oncology team, St. Croix Hospice, and the many people who regularly checked on her.

She is survived by her daughter Lori (Nathan) Bandelin of Hibbing; stepsons Brian "Bubba" Johnson and Jim Johnson; stepdaughter 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; stepson Hankie Johnson; son-in-law Alex "Joe" Laveau; and brother-in-law Dwayne Johnson.

A celebration of life will be held 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1 at Silver Brook Town Hall, 401 Alcohol Road, Wrenshall.