Elaine Helen Johnson

1919 - 2015

1919- 2015

Elaine Johnson, matriarch of two extended families, passed away peacefully at her home in Eugene, Oregon on September 16, 2015. Her cause of death was due to an already compromised heart weakened from the loss of Orvie, her love of almost 80 years last February.

Elaine was unwilling to die before school commenced so that her large family of 3 children, 8 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren were able to finish summer plans.

Born in Ytterberg, Sweden in 1919 she emigrated to Monroe, Wa. in 1923 with her family. There she was raised with sisters Christine, Lily, Karen, Viola and brother, Harold, graduating from Monroe High School.

She worked in Seattle as a dental assistant, wine tester, at a logging camp in Ohop and after marriage assisted on the family farm in Carnation.

With moves to Oregon in the 50's she became chief transition expert for all as the family lived in Portland, Lebanon and Eugene. She was an expert in helping her children in changes of schools and friends. Along the way she developed close friendships that lasted her lifetime. She was active in her Presbyterian church, organizations supporting her children, Swedish Chorus and numerous community agencies.

She treasured her close relationships with her PEO sisters since 1972 holding every office but treasurer as she recognized her limitations. She enjoyed golfing, her pizza buddies, church friends and many others.

Elaine possessed a strength of character sharing with Orvie a strong work ethic, moral code and qualities of loyalty, honesty and generosity. She shared a love of life and was excited for any new adventure.

Devoted to family, no trip was too far or too ill timed. She and Dad were always on hand to share their love and support. She taught us well the importance of family and love of our family heritage. Everyone remembers her for having on hand amazing Swedish cookies, quick breads and healing chicken soup.

Mom's expression of love and gratitude was continual. She enjoyed her lovely home; happy to spend her last days there awaiting the time to join Dad. Her children Rod (Mila), Lorene (Chris) and Richard (Marie) thank all who assisted in making these past months possible.

Memorial service for Elaine will be on October 17, 2015 at 3 pm at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 777 Coburg Rd, Eugene, Oregon.

In lieu of flowers and recognition of Elaine's commitment to PEO, the family suggests donations for Cottey College, 1000 W. Austin, Nevada, MO 64772.