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Helen Johnson Obituary

of Chicago, passed away at age 96 on August 19, 2015, from complications of heart disease. Her husband, Herman Frithjof Johnson, predeceased her. Ms. Johnson served 35 years as a physical education teacher in the Chicago Public Schools, teaching at Gary, Brainard, Webster, Abbott, Sawyer, Nightingale, Parker, and Pasteur Schools. She received the BE from Chicago Teachers College, and MA from Northwestern University. Ms. Johnson was a pioneer in bicycle touring and hostelling, leading 15 summer-long trips through the U.S, Europe, and Japan. Ms. Johnson was active in community leadership, serving as officer of the American Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation; The Suder Club for women physical education teachers; the Retired Teachers' Association of Chicago; Hostelling International, serving on state, national, and international boards; and many folk dance groups. She has given over 3000 hours of service to the Museum of Science and Industry. Interment was private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hostelling International USA, 8401 Colesville Rd, Ste 600, Silver Spring, MD 20910, or the Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Tribune from Aug. 22 to Aug. 24, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
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5 Entries

Anna and Richard Cholewa

August 16, 2021

Helen and Herman were proxy Grandparents for our children, Angela and Michael. We often enjoy talking about our memories of them. They live in our hearts.

Rosemarie McGrath

August 29, 2015

What a wonderful, admirable "can-do" spirit Helen had! She was a wonderful friend to my mother, Mildred. No matter what happened she was "up to the job" and cheerfully carried on, despite any adversity.

So glad she didn't suffer and linger and lose her independence. She did it her way and was mentally clear until the peaceful end.

She lived a good life. God bless her!

Anna Cholewa

August 24, 2015

We loved you, Helen!
Anna, Richard, Angela and Mike Cholewa.

Barry Finkel

August 24, 2015

I fondly remember Helen and her two brothers, who were long-time friends of my parents. I used to see Helen at the Goodman Theatre, as she had tickets the same night as my parents.

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