Noreen J. Johnson

Noreen J. Johnson obituary, Durand, MI

Noreen J. Johnson

Noreen Johnson Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes – MacDonald Chapel - Howell on Jan. 19, 2026.
Noreen Johnson (Jendrusina), of Howell, Michigan, passed away after a courageous eight-month battle with pancreatic cancer. Throughout her life-and even in her most difficult moments-Noreen remained a woman of deep faith, hope, and unwavering positivity.
Noreen was the beloved wife of Arthur Johnson. Together, they built a life centered on love, creativity, and family. She was a devoted and deeply proud mother to her sons, Brent Johnson, Ryan Johnson, and Kyle Johnson, and a cherished grandmother to Elliott Johnson and Jessie Bell. Beyond these roles, Noreen was an honorary grandma to many wonderful babies who were fortunate to receive her love and care.
She is survived by her brother, Bruce Jendrusina, and was preceded in death by her parents, Andrew and Eleanor, and her brother, Kerry Jendrusina.
Creativity was woven into every part of Noreen's life. She loved cooking, scrapbooking, and hosting crafting nights that brought people together in joy and laughter. Most recently, she proudly won second place in the Osceola Township Mini Christmas Tree Decorating Competition. Noreen was also a much-loved Boy Scouts leader during her sons' years in scouting.
Noreen earned her bachelor's degree in computer science at the University Of Michigan and approached life with thoughtfulness, creativity, and generosity. She was known for her incredibly thoughtful gift-giving, her encouraging spirit, and her ability to make others feel truly seen and supported. Always positive and endlessly kind, Noreen left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.
A celebration of Noreen's life will be scheduled later this spring. Details will be shared with family and friends at a later date.
Her legacy of love, creativity, and compassion will live on in the many lives she touched.
Memories and online condolences can be shared with the family at www.WatkinsFuneralHomes.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Noreen, please visit our floral store.

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

Sign Noreen Johnson's Guest Book

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January 21, 2026

Carolyn Sarkisian and family posted to the memorial.

January 19, 2026

The Staff of MacDonald's Funeral Home posted to the memorial.

January 16, 2026

Jeannine (Jenny) (Belde) Bakriges posted to the memorial.

Carolyn Sarkisian and family

January 21, 2026

Noreen was hostess to many a family gathering. Holidays were always a fun experience and meals were homemade from beginning to end. We fondly would refer to her as "the Queen of Halloween", as she loved to put on a good party for her kids and their cousins. We have many family memories to hold dear. Noreen loved family and it showed. Noreen will always remain in our hearts.

The Staff of MacDonald's Funeral Home

January 19, 2026

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

Jeannine (Jenny) (Belde) Bakriges

January 16, 2026

Noreen and Candy, both neighbors - Candy next to my house and Noreen across the back alley in Detroit, were my two best friends for years. Both have now crossed over. Noreen was generous, loving, and kind. A favorite memory was singing as we pumped her player piano in their basement. We also had great fun stamp collecting. And it was in Noreen's basement that we'd dance together to all the latest tunes on CKLW. I loved her style. I love her and I wish her well now that she has transitioned and is embarking on new adventures. Bright blessings to all her family and friends. Pic shows Candy on left, Noreen in middle, and me on right. I had come in to Detroit for a Regina class reunion, a high school both Noreen and I went to (she was class of '74, whereas I was class of '75).

Josie Richards

January 14, 2026

God bless you, and may you rest in peace, sweet Noreen!

I was lucky to have known her, as we went to Guardian Angels together. Noreen´s updated Facebook posts showed her strength, her faith, and her love of life and family.
Prayers to the family!
Josie (Aleardi) Richards

Tracie Accardo

January 14, 2026

Continued prayers for Noreen and her family. Glad to have known her and will cherish our grade school and Girl Scout days.RIP Noreen

Eileen Koglin-Rudrik

January 13, 2026

So sorry for your loss. I too went to grade school with Noreen at Guardian Angels. I remember Noreen had to wear a back brace. That could not be easy. Never heard her complain. Could tell she dealt with the cancer the same way. My prayers and condolences to all of her family. May God help heal your broken hearts.

Mark Iwanski

January 13, 2026

Noreen was my classmate at Guardian Angels elementary school in Detroit. While I have not seen her in many years, I have fond memories of her being a sweet and kind person. I offer my prayers and sincere condolences to her family.

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Sign Noreen Johnson's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

January 21, 2026

Carolyn Sarkisian and family posted to the memorial.

January 19, 2026

The Staff of MacDonald's Funeral Home posted to the memorial.

January 16, 2026

Jeannine (Jenny) (Belde) Bakriges posted to the memorial.