Marian T. Johnson's Obituary
Marian Thelma Johnson, age 87, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2026, at Bethany Home in Waupaca, surrounded by her loving family.
Marian was born on October 3, 1938, in Scandinavia, Wisconsin, to Otto and Ella (Mork) Nielsen. She was united in marriage to Willard “Bud” Johnson on January 28, 1961, at Hitterdahl Lutheran Church in Iola, Wisconsin. Together, they built a life centered on family and love, and were blessed with four children.
She is survived by her children: Scott (Lauri Handrich) Johnson, Kirt (Rae) Johnson, Kerry (John) Lueders, and Greg (Jesse Schuelke) Johnson; her sister, Lorraine Clappes; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a sister-in-law, Debroah Johnson, all of whom brought her immense joy.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Otto and Ella (Mork) Nielsen; her husband, Willard “Bud” Johnson; her brother-in-law, Douglas Clappes; and a brother-in-law, Douglas Johnson
For 62 years, Marian worked as a beautician and took pride in running her own salon out of her home, where she not only cared for her clients but also built lasting friendships. She also deeply loved sewing, knitting, and was an amazing seamstress.
Marian will be remembered for her kindness, dedication to her family, and the warmth she shared with everyone she met.
A funeral service for Marian will be held at 11:30 AM on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Waupaca, with Reverend Dr. Charles Tews officiating. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 AM until the time of service.
Marian will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Bud, at Parfreyville Cemetery in the Town of Dayton.
The family would like to extend their sincere thanks, to the staff at Bethany Home, especially the third-floor staff, and also to Heartland Hospice.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Waupaca Senior Center and the Trinity Lutheran Church Handbell Choir. The Holly Funeral Home of Waupaca is assisting the family.
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