Marie Johnson

Marie Christine Johnson, age 80, died peacefully on December 2, 2014, with her family at her side.

Born September 28, 1934, in Audubon County, IA, to Chris and Laura Pedersen, she attended country school and later obtained her GED. On May 29, 1954, she married Gail Johnson. They lived their life together in Atlantic, Iowa, where she worked steadfastly at raising four children, often being the home where the neighborhood kids gathered. Many will remember her as the friendly smile at Safeway where she was a cashier for numerous years. Most recently she worked for Delong Sportswear, retiring in 1999. Marie was a longtime member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church. A dedicated wife, mother and grandmother.

Marie found great joy in spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She had a passion for reading and crossword puzzles. Marie will be especially remembered for her dedication to her family, kindness to others, sweet smile, loving heart, courage, strength and a sense of humor.

When diagnosed with cancer in May, she remained dedicated in her will to fight her illness. She remained a brave, spirited woman, even throughout her final months. Marie was the rock and the glue that kept the family together during her courageous battle with cancer. In the end she was called back to God's Kingdom on her own terms.


Marie is survived by her husband of 60 years, Gail Johnson, of Atlantic, Iowa; three daughters and sons-in law, Denise and Curtis Bradley of Corning, IA, Debbie and Jerry Martin of Atlantic, IA, Julie and Jay Muhe of Yuma, AZ. Four grandchildren, Katrina Sonntag and husband Erik, Matt Bradley, Nathan Bradley and wife Brooke, Mikaela Gangstead and husband Dusty, five great-grandchildren, Brienna Steffens, Avery, Kaiden and Daxton Bradley and Kaetin Gangstead; her sister, Ethel and husband Lynn Williamson.

She was preceded in death by her dear son, Ryan Johnson and her parents, Chris and Laura Pedersen.

Services for Marie will be held at St. Paul's Lutheran Church on Friday, December 5, 2014. Visitation will be from 9:30-11:00 a.m. Memorial services will begin at 11:00 a.m. with luncheon for family and friends to follow.