Mieko Jessica Johnson
Mieko Jessica Johnson
Obituary
Guest Book
Mieko Johnson Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.
View All Photos
Add Photos to Memorial
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Shawn DeLaney
January 6, 2009
R.I.P, that little girl's life was cut too short
Kirsten Durfee
September 7, 2008
If our purpose is to make the world a better place then Mieko, as little as she was, certainly succeeded. Her smile, her determination, her strength and courage, and her joy made such a lasting impression, even on those of us who never had the chance to meet her. My heart is with you and I know those traits you gave her will serve you well. Thank you so much for sharing Mieko with us.
Kerri Zelenak
August 16, 2008
Shawn and Maya, I am truly sorry for your loss. No words can express my deep sense of loss for you; however, know that your angel is in heaven playing with the other angels. My thoughts are with you.
Atousa Slafko
July 22, 2008
Dear Maya and Shawn,
My heart breaks for you, I can see Mieko's smile and hear her giggles from the videos/pictures you sent out. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
BriJo Deopere
July 21, 2008
ShawnJohn:
I am so sorry about your loss. Mieko was a beautiful little girl and you were all blessed to have each other even for such a short time. They must have needed another angel in heaven. You and your family are in my prayers.
Deb Halberstadt
July 21, 2008
Maya and Shawn:
My heart has a piece breaking away. Your mother and I love you Maya and feel deeply for you at the loss of your beautiful little daughter Mieko. You and Shawn could not have done more for her. Take this amazing baby girl's experience with you everywhere to help make your family forever strong against the bad time in life.
Love Deb and Jon
pam biffis
July 21, 2008
maya and shawn,
i am sure meiko was an inspiration to anyone who ever met her and all who saw her through the advocacy work she did on video. she accomplished an awful lot in a short time. what a beautiful little soul, now a beautiful angel. may you find peace
with love,
pam (mum to t 13 angel tyler)
Tracey Pass
July 20, 2008
Maya and Shawn,
My heart goes out to you both. I have so enjoyed watching Maya shine on video and in the photos you sent. She will be greatly missed but I can see her and my beautiful Louise dancing through the flowers in heaven hand in hand. My prayers will be with you both over these next weeks and months.
Sheila Helleson
July 20, 2008
Maya and Shawn,
What a beautiful obituary for your little girl! And Mieko was definitely a beautiful little girl. I wish I could have been there for her memorial service even though we have never met. I feel as though I know you through Tri-Family and the work you have done to educate people about genetic abnormalities like T-18. My granddaughter also had T-18. I always looked to Mieko as an inspiration.
My sympathy is with you as you journey on.
Noelle Walker
July 20, 2008
I remember that first week in the hospital after Mieko was born like it was yesterday. She was so tiny, so perfect, just like a little doll. It was hard to wrap my mind around the idea that this new life was so tenuous. Since I've moved, I have watched her grow up online through your entries and WCCO stories. She has smiling eyes that can only come from being so deeply loved. Mieko was so lucky to have you both as parents, and you so fortunate to have her in your lives. You are all in my thoughts.
Love,
Noelle
Andrea Korpi
July 18, 2008
Dear Maya and Shawn.
You may not remember me from SPHS, but when Anastasia Dunn told me about your beautiful daughter's passing, my heart went out to you both. Maya, I will send you a private message with info on how to get you through this,(poems, readings, etc.), as I experienced a similar loss myself a few years back. I just wanted to leave you with one of my favorite sayings.
"My barn having burned to the ground, I can now see the moon"
With rue my heart is laden, Andrea Korpi(Lublin)
Ben Gerads
July 15, 2008
Maya and Family-
Altough I never had the opportunity to meet Meiko I know hom much she meant to your entire family. Although she is gone I know she will never be forgotten and that her spirit will live on forever in everyone she touched. May God comfort you and your family during this difficult time.
Peace to you all.
Anastasia Phillips-Dunn
July 15, 2008
Dear Maya and Shawn:
I am offering condolences on behalf of the SPHSAA, our thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time. If there is anything we can do for you, please spare no hesitation in contacting us, we're here for you. All our best to you and your family during this difficult time.
On a personal note, I send my love, and hope that it bears some comfort. My heart, my thoughts and my prayers are with you during this time.
Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers,
David Hlavac
July 15, 2008
Johnson Family,
Our condolences on the loss of your daughter, Mieko. Our daughter, Nora, was born last August 26 and died two days later due to Trisomy 18 complications. We feel lucky for those 42 hours we got to spend with our daughter, just as we are sure you are grateful for these past four years with yours.
With love and admiration for your beautiful daughter,
The Hlavac Family
Jennifer Brandt Gilbert
July 14, 2008
Dear Maya and Shawn,
I just heard about Mieko and am so saddened to hear about her passing. I wish I could have been there today to share in her celebration of life! She was an amazing little girl who never ceased to amaze me with the progress that she continued to make. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers, Mieko will never be forgotten. God Bless you all!
Mike and Mary Kaye Tillmann
July 14, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. God Bless!
Teri Knight
July 14, 2008
What a bright and beautiful light Mieko brought here ..... what a joyful spirit she shared. My heart goes out to you, Maya and Shawn and your families.
Alyssa Chapman
July 14, 2008
Dear Shawn & Maya,
My husband & I are also the parents of a daughter who was stricken with the genetic disorder Trisomy 18. Our daughter Grace was born on November 12 and lived for 5 hours. We feel blessed to have had her in our lives for even that short amount of time and know that you must feel the same having had your beautiful Jessica for 4 years.
Although you don't know us and we don't know you, we are joined with you in knowing and understanding the saddness that comes when losing a child. We will think of you and pray for you to find happiness and peace in the days ahead.
With love,
Alyssa Chapman
Jackie and Jeanne Heintz
July 14, 2008
Maya and Shawn:
Our deepest sympathies on the loss of your daughter (an angel) Mieko. She has truly been blessed by wonderful parents...May God Bless you in this difficult time. Maya, you are an inspiration as well.
Jeanne and Jackie Heintz, St. Paul
WCCO viewers
Victoria LaBerge
July 14, 2008
Maya and family,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts.
Victoria LaBerge
(St. Paul SEAC)
Nancy Meyer
July 14, 2008
Dear Maya and Shawn,
It is evident that Mieko was treasured and deeply loved. Hold on to the wonderful memories you have and know that Mieko touched the hearts of all that were fortunate enough to know her. She was a treasure that will be remembered. Thank you for sharing her with us and for allowing us all to see the world in a better way. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Mary Wolkerstorfer
July 14, 2008
Dear Maya and Shawn,
I was deeply saddened to hear of your beautiful little girl's passing. She is your very own special angel! May God heal your broken hearts.
Sincerely,
(A WCCO Viewer)
Pam Nelson (SEAC)
July 14, 2008
Maya and family,
I feel blessed to have known Mieko through a fabulous mom dedicated to ensuring quality educational opportunities in Saint Paul schools. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this time of deep loss.
Sincerest sympathy,
Janise Bader
July 14, 2008
Shawn and Maya,
When Cindy called to tell me about Miss Mieko, I got tears in my eyes and a lump in my throat. My heart aches for you and all of the people who were fortunate enough to share in Meiko's life. I feel so grateful that I was able to work with Meiko and you. Though it was for a short time you and Mieko made such a strong impression. I remember Mieko as such a beautiful little baby with such a sweet, yet determined spirit. Her delightful smile and warm spirit touched my heart. Mieko's very short life was rich and full because of her amazing parents! She was so fortunate to have a mom and dad that were so loving and devoted to her. You easily saw all of her wonderful strengths and built on them . I wish I could be there today wearing my brightest colors to honor Mieko. Know I am there in spirit and my thoughts are with you. Janise Bader
Cecelia Dodge
July 13, 2008
Maya and Shawn,
I've got to believe that someone is thanking you right now for the beautiful gift of Mieko. It is clear that she was just that - a beautiful gift, and that you and Shawn clearly recognized that. May you find peace knowing that she's lighting up the heavens, or someone new wherever children go when they die- for I am certain that children like Mieko continue to bring joy to others in some way that we don't understand. And of course, their memories are with us always. My sympathies.
andrea watrud
July 13, 2008
Maya and Shawn,
Blessings and peace to you as you let Mieko move on to be with God. What an extraordinary journey you are having with her being in your life and now her spiritual presence surrounding you. May the days ahead bring you peace even through your grief. May you understand and grasp how a community cares for and supports you.
Andrea-SEAC St. Paul
andrea watrud
July 13, 2008
Maya and Shawn,
Blessings and peace to you as you let Meiko move on to be with God. What an extraordinary journey you are having with her being in your life and now her spiritual presence surrounding you. May the days ahead bring you peace even through your grief. May you understand and grasp how a community cares for and supports you.
Andrea-SEAC St. Paul
Catherine Wright
July 13, 2008
Dear Maya and Shawn,
I am so sorry to hear about Meiko's passing. What a truly precious child. You are in my thoughts.
Sincerely,
(former St. Paul SEAC)
Allison Fochs
July 13, 2008
I have been following Mieko's story on CaringBridge since you did that Mother's Day Story about her three years. Your openess about her and her condition was nice and refreshing. You helped alot of people by educating them about Trisomy 13/18. I am sure that Mieko is a beautiful angel. Your family is my thoughts and prayers
In My Prayers
July 13, 2008
THE BRAVE LITTLE SOUL
Not too long ago in Heaven, there was a little soul who took wonder in observing the world. He especially enjoyed the love he saw there and often expressed this joy with God. One day however, the little soul was sad, for on this day he saw suffering in the world. He approached God and sadly asked, “Why do bad things happen, why is there suffering in the world?”
God paused for a moment and replied, Little Soul, do not be sad, for the suffering you see, unlocks the love in people’s hearts”. The little soul was confused. “What do you mean”, he asked. God replied. Have you not noticed the goodness and love that is the offspring of that suffering? Look at how people come together, drop their differences, and show their love and compassion for those who suffer. All their other motivations disappear and they become motivated by love alone.
The little soul began to understand and listen attentively as God continued, “The suffering soul unlocks the love in people’s hearts much like the sun and rain unlock the flower within the seed. I created everyone with endless love in their heart, but unfortunately, most people keep it locked up and hardly share with anyone. They are afraid to let their love shine freely, because they are afraid of being hurt. But a suffering soul unlocks that love. I tell you this- it is the greatest miracle of all. Many souls have bravely chosen to go into the world and suffer-to unlock this love-to create this miracle-for the good of all humanity.”
Just then, the little soul got a wonderful idea and can hardly contain himself. With his wings fluttering, bouncing up and down, the little soul excitedly replied, I am brave: let me go! I would like to go into this world and suffer so that I can unlock the goodness and love in people’s hearts! I want to create that miracle!”
God smiled and said, you are a brave soul, I know and thus I will grant your request but even though you are very brave you will not be able to do this alone. I have known since the beginning of time that you would ask and so I have carefully selected many souls to care for you on your journey. Those souls will help you create your miracle: however, they will also share in your suffering. Two of those souls are most special and will care for you, help you and suffer along with you, far beyond the others. They have already chosen a name for you.
God and the brave little soul shared a smile and then embraced. In parting, God said, “Do not forget little soul that I will be with you always. Although you have agreed to bear this pain, you will do so through my strength. And if the time should come when you feel that you have suffered enough, just say the word, think the thought, and you will be healed.”
Thus, at that moment, the brave little soul was born into the world, and through his suffering and God’s strength he unlocked the goodness and love in people’s hearts. For so many people dropped their differences and came together to show their love. Priorities became properly aligned. People gave from their hearts. Those that were always too busy found time. Many began new spiritual journeys-some regained lost faith-many came back to God. Parents hugged their kids tighter. Friends and family grew closer. Old friends got together and new friendships were made. Distant family reunited, and every family spent more time together. Everyone prayed. Peace and love reigned. Lives were changed forever. It was good. The world was a better place. The miracle had happened. God was pleased.
Believe in God’s promises….
Jennifer Foxhoven
July 13, 2008
Maya and Shawn(and family)~
I am so very sorry to hear of Mieko's passing! What a HUGE inspiration she was,and a very smiley,happy little girl who put up one heck of a fight right to the very end!
I got the great pleasure of meeting Mieko at Jodi and Shane's house for the boys' birthday's and was so inspired by her the minute I met her!
May the memory of her live on in your hearts and the hearts of others forever!
Am thinking of you and praying for you!
~Jennifer Foxhoven(and family)~
a mom
July 13, 2008
i work with special needs children, and the hardest part of my job is falling in love with them, and then losing them much to early.
Chris & Janet Fletcher
July 13, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May your faith get you through. Our deepest sympathy.
Jill Manske
July 13, 2008
I was so sad to read of Mieko's passing. I know that you will miss her forever but will treasure the joy that she brought to you as well as that special gift of showing us all a new and better way to see the world. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Lenora Rasmusson
July 13, 2008
Maya and Shawn -
May you be truly comforted to know that others care. We don't know each other but really felt like we knew you. I have never lost a child so I can't say I know how it feels.
Mieiko sure looks a lot like her mother.
Please rest assured that our thoughts are with you and the rest of your family.
Lean on your immediate family and your WCCO family. We all care.
Lotsa love
Lenora & Bill
Roberta Kaufman
July 13, 2008
Maya and family,
You have my deepest sympathy in the loss of your daughter. Through her, your own strength became visible as a parent and professional intent to open doors of understanding for others. May you find peace in the days ahead as you are comforted by other family and friends.
Erin Zolotukhin-Ridgway
July 13, 2008
Dear Maya and Shawn and other family members:
I am so sorry to hear of your loss and so sorry that I never got to meet Meiko. I know from hearing about her what a wonderful girl she was and how much you love her. My family and I wish you peace and strength and the comfort of the love and memories you shared.
Hannah
July 13, 2008
I was saddened to learn of Mieko's death. Sincere condolences to the family and to everyone who knew and loved her. May Mieko's memory be eternal!
Rochelle Spiess
July 13, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008
Lynne WCCO viewer
July 13, 2008
I would like to express my sympathy on the loss of your precious daughter and my deep respect for how you parented her during her life. Your openess about her condition on a WCCO program was touching and I pray that your joy will be great and your grief will be sweet.
Barbara Stilwell
July 13, 2008
My deepest sympathies to you and your family at this time. Mieko shared a special place in the hearts of all who knew her. Keep the memories of your shared time with her in a special place. They will comfort you and your husband far into the future. My prayers and thoughts go out to you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Melinda Anderson
July 13, 2008
Meiko's Family:
My sincere condolences. This precious, adorable and beautiful little Angel may be gone physically but will always remain within so many hearts.
The few times I have seen this beautiful little Angel on television with her beautiful & loveable Mommy, I sure can see this baby is truly LOVED and cherished, which also attributed to her remaining with us longer than expected.
Cherish the special memories and GREAT moments.
She is NO longer in any discomfort and at total peace now.
The world sure needs more wonderful, loving and sincere parents such as Meiko's.
God bless Meiko's family and keep you all safely under his wing! Again, my sincere condolences for your HUGE loss.
Debbie (a WCCO viewer)
July 12, 2008
To Miekos' family,
My sincerest sympathies on the loss of your beautiful little girl. I have been following her Caringbridge website for quite some time. May you find comfort in the days ahead.
f,.
Pam (Colm's Mommy) McSweeney
July 12, 2008
Mieko is proof that we can never have too much time with our child. I pray that you will turn to all of those wonderful memories you have of her to get you through the difficult days ahead.
Michelle Claxton
July 12, 2008
Dearest Mieko's family,
My condolences on the loss of dear Meiko. Her sweet smile was always a joy to see! Even though we never wished her to be sick and in the hospital, She was a joy to take care of. She now is at peace with God in heaven...Takecare...You will be in my thoughts during this difficult time. Sincerely, Michelle Claxton, RN Children's St.Paul.
Susan Mercier
July 12, 2008
The memories you have will stay with you forever. You courage in giving life to a very special terminal child derserves the greatest reward God can give. Her love is yours forever.
Showing 1 - 46 of 46 results
Make a Donation
in Mieko Johnson's name
People and places connected with Mieko
Recent Obituaries
How to support Mieko's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Mieko Johnson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored