Fern Frances "Johnston" Tarkowski

Fern Tarkowski, age 77, of Green Bay passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, in her home, surrounded by loved ones.

Fern was born to Gertrude and Floyd Johnston on December 15, 1948. She spent her early years with her family, including her brothers, Chester and John and her sister, Jill.

Survived by her loving husband and best friend Glenn, daughter Julie (Kevin) Srenaski, son Joe (Jami), granddaughters Alexis (Humberto) Srenaski, Jaymee (Taylor) Srenaski, Ella (Nick), and Lucy, great-grandchildren Bear and Adrian, brother Chester (Linda) Johnston, sister Jill (Richard) Lambert, brother-in-law Ron (Niki), Godchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Gertrude Johnston, brother John, sister-in-law Donna, and son Jeff.

Fern and her husband Glenn were inseparable; they were married December 28, 1968. Fern was a loving and devoted wife. She never missed a chance to use his 'hugs from behind' to try and flip him over her shoulder in order to make him laugh. Though they vacationed to all corners of the country, one of their favorite dates was always a road trip to a nearby Big Boy restaurant. Their connection was like no other, holding hands through 65 years of love and friendship.

Fern was employed by the Green Bay Area Public School District for over 20 years, as a media specialist; retiring from the district in 2013.

Fern believed dignity wasn't something you earned. She gave everyone kindness, love and respect, without bias. Above all she loved her family and poured herself into their lives. She showed up for them every time, in every way.

She loved her children fiercely and took real joy in what mattered to them.

With her son Joe, he was always her baby. She showed him unconditional love, never showing anger toward him and always stood up for him. In high school she was his personal alarm clock, made his breakfasts every morning, and even contributed to his success with homework. She also contributed to Joe achieving high levels of athletic success.

With her son Jeff, it was their shared passion for dogs. In 2003 opening and operating Great Expectations Canine Behavior Center together, along with supporting his passion for raising, training, and showing champion show dogs. Fern was incredibly supportive of Jeff as a triathlete. She always found the time to lend a hand with Jeff's chickens, goats, gardening, and woodworking.

Fern supported her daughter, Julie, with unwavering devotion. She helped in raising her daughters Alexis and Jaymee, showing them what a loving family looks like and being an amazing role model. She was always encouraging of Julie's roles as a coach and teacher, bringing treats for the classroom and helping with projects. Fern was the proud leader of Julie's Ironman Support Crew, attending all of her races, making PB&Js for on the course nutrition, and cheering loudly as she crossed the finish line.

Her granddaughters were a constant source of pride and happiness. She created memorable traditions like Saturday night sleepovers, Sunday morning cinnamon rolls, and cutout Christmas cookies frosted with all but blue sprinkles. She was always there for them, encouraging their interests and attending their events: Alexis's swim meets, laundry and even co-parenting her dogs; Jaymee's soccer games and love for dogs and the center; Ella's track meets and dress shopping; and Lucy's photography and art exhibits.

Fern also had a gift for letting people know they belonged. She loved and welcomed with open arms, the friends, partners, and families in her life. Of these are Adrian, Bear, Humberto, Taylor, Nick, Aliece, Jayne, Emma, Anthony, Peggy, and many more.

She was always looking for ways to help others. She was someone who would give you the shirt off her back and the dog food off her store counter. She loved going out to eat with family and friends and she genuinely enjoyed cleaning and organizing her home and anywhere else she was invited to lend a hand.

Fern's smile lit up every room she walked into. She was a light and will remain in the hearts of everyone she loved, forever.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Lora, Emily, Kay, Rabihah, and Unity Hospice, who provided compassionate care and support to the family and Fern.

A Memorial Service will be held at 4:00 p.m. Sunday, February 22, 2026 at West Side Moravian Church. Officiating at the service will be the Rev. Marian Boyle Rohloff.

The family will greet relatives and friends at the church on Sunday from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the service at 4:00 p.m.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family by visiting www.lyndahl.com

The Lyndahl Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the Tarkowski family with arrangements.