Lois Johnson

Lois Johnson was born to Vernon and Bertha Wedel in Copeland, Kan., on Sept. 10, 1933. Because of the terrible dust storms, they moved to Bonners Ferry, Idaho, in 1936. Mom enjoyed her childhood years here.

When Mom was 13, she answered God’s call. She was baptized in the Mennonite faith on Jan. 7, 1947.

As a young woman, Mom was employed at Taft’s Dime Store. In the fall of 1957, Mom went to Greasewood Mennonite Mission. This is where she met her life’s companion, Elwood Johnson. They were married on June 21, 1959, in Bonners Ferry. They made their home in Middleton, Mich.

In September 1977, they moved to Bonners Ferry.

Life has not always been easy for Mom. She lost a son, Brandon, in 1995. Four years later, Dad passed away, leaving Mom lonely for 22 years. She leaned on God, and had a personal relationship with Him.

The last years, Mom suffered from a brain tumor surgery, which left her with a weak leg. This caused grief but God saw her through.

Several days ago, Mom got sick and was admitted to the hospital. It seemed a cure was not to be, so we brought her home.

Mom peacefully passed away Nov. 8, 2021, with her family surrounding her. She lived a full life, and though it hurts to say goodbye, we are glad she is free from all sorrow and pain.

Left to cherish memories are her children: Terry and Kristy Johnson of Bonners Ferry, Judy and Jim Jantz of Oregon, and Rebecca and Aaron Koehn of Washington; 13 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; one sister, Loretta Dyck of Bonners Ferry; and sisters-in-law Gloria of Dirks, Idaho, and Dorothy Unruh, Kan.

Mom was preceded in death by her husband, Elwood Johnson; a son, Brandon; her parents and parents-is-law; and a sister, two brothers, five brothers-in-law and four sisters-in-law.

To leave a message or memory for the family, please go to www.bonnersferryfuneralhome.com. Bonners Ferry Funeral Home is caring for the family.