Mary Lou Johnson

Mary Lou Johnson, the only child of Harold and Meda Johnson, returned to her heavenly home on February 14, 2016. She was 67. After many years battling the ailments that “body beautiful” brought her way, Mary knew the end was near. She enjoyed visits from loved ones before she passed away peacefully at IMC Hospital in Murray, Utah.

Mary was born in Madelia, MN and moved to Garden City at age 7. Her childhood was spent helping Mom at the Johnson Family Cafe, and keeping Dad company during his drives to town. Mary joined the LDS Church in 1969 and soon moved to Utah. She worked at the Church Office Building in several different capacities and made many lifelong friendships along the way.

Throughout her life Mary remained true to her Minnesota upbringing. She could always be counted on for an “Uffda” or a Sven and Ollie joke. Many of Mary’s stories were about the shenanigans she was involved in as a schoolgirl. She most recently visited Minnesota three years ago and treasured the time she was able to spend with her cousins and friends.

Mary is preceded in death by her parents and cousins Audrey Nelson, Leora Lange, Lois Grubbs, Clinton Campbell, Richard Campbell, Ralph Campbell, Donald Johnson, James Johnson, Dale Johnson, Clifford Johnson, Delores Hawes, Delbert Ellanson, Robert Lynch and Burton Kilmer.

She is survived by her cousins Daryl Kilmer (JoAnn), Royce Kilmer (Pat), Arlo Kilmer (Pam), Larrys Kilmer (Linda), and Cheryl Wilde (Dennis),

A funeral service was held on February 20 in Riverton, Utah. All are invited to attend a graveside service at the Garden City Cemetery on Tuesday, February 23 at 11am. A luncheon will be held afterwards at the First Presbyterian Church in Lake Crystal.

Mankato Mortuary handled local arrangements.