Bonnie Gail Paulson-Johnson

Bonnie Gail Paulson-Johnson, born on March 8, 1944, in Tacoma, Washington, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2024, in Graham, Washington. She was the beloved daughter of Hugh and Elsie Kilcup and grew up in a lively household alongside her six siblings.

From an early age, Bonnie's parents instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep Christian faith that became the cornerstone of her life. As a child, she joined her mother in picking vegetables in the fields and selling Watkins products door-to-door. These formative experiences shaped her character and taught her the value of hard work and perseverance.

In her teenage years, Bonnie worked at a local dress shop where she discovered her passion for sales and building relationships with customers. This love for connecting with people would become a defining trait throughout her life.

At just 18 years old, Bonnie married Melvin Todd Paulson, with whom she shared over three decades of marriage. Together they welcomed two cherished children, Melanie and Todd. During these early years of their marriage, Bonnie and Melvin ran one of the family-owned Paulson retail stores in Lakewood, Washington. The store sold appliances, televisions, stereo equipment, and later motorcycles. As business flourished, Bonnie became a familiar face to many through her appearances in local television commercials for the store. Her vibrant personality endeared her to customers and made her well-known within the community.

Bonnie deeply loved this season of life-working alongside her family at the store while raising Melanie and Todd. Her warmth and enthusiasm left an indelible mark on everyone she met. Known for her fun-loving spirit and competitive nature, Bonnie enjoyed playing racquetball and pursuing other active hobbies. She also developed a passion for motorcycles, becoming an accomplished rider who competed successfully in motorcycle trials events across the Pacific Northwest.

In addition to being a devoted mother, Bonnie embraced the joy of becoming a grandmother to four treasured grandchildren: Ashley Layton, Ryan Paulson, Jordan Hoover, and Braedan Pardee. She delighted in spending time with them as they grew up.

Bonnie's unwavering faith in Jesus Christ remained central throughout her life. It was both her guiding light during times of challenge and a source of joy that she lovingly passed on to those around her.

In 1996, Bonnie married Leif William Johnson. Their union brought new adventures as they blended their families-Leif being the father of six sons: Leif Jr., Jarrett, Justin, Jordan, Lane, and Jay. Together they created a busy yet rewarding life filled with milestones like graduations, weddings, and watching their children grow into successful adults.

During this chapter of their lives together, Bonnie and Leif also poured their energy into running a thriving direct-selling distributorship. They found immense purpose in inspiring others to achieve their goals while traveling across the United States and Canada to share their message with audiences large and small.

Bonnie continued to live out her faith until her final days. To her, relationships-with family and lifelong friends like Susie Caudle (a friend for over 75 years), Pat Anderson (a friend for more than 40 years) and Patty Field, as well as countless other extended family, friends and business partners-were among life's greatest treasures.

She is survived by many who loved her dearly: her children Melanie Pardee and Todd Paulson; grandchildren Ashley Layton, Ryan Paulson, Jordan Hoover, and Braedan Pardee; sister Myra Wilkins; step-sons Leif Jr., Jarrett, Justin, Jordan, Lane, Jay Johnson along with their wives and children; cherished friends Susie Caudle, Pat Anderson and Patty Field; as well as numerous extended family members and friends whose lives were touched by Bonnie's kindness and generosity.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 8, 2025 at 2 p.m., at Edlynn Farm located at 25921 158th Ave Ct E., Graham WA 98338.

Bonnie's legacy lives on through all who knew her-a beacon of hope rooted in faith that will continue to shine brightly for generations to come.