Janice Johnson

Janice Johnson, 83, of Staples passed away July 11, 2025. With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend.

Funeral Services will be held on Monday, July 21, at 11:00 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church in Staples. Visitation will be held beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the church. Lunch will be served following the service. 

Janice was born October 3, 1941, to Leonard and Mary Jane (Burger) Loken. She grew up with a brilliant mind and a compassionate spirit. A proud graduate of Long Prairie High School, she finished at the top of her class - a testament to her sharp intellect and unwavering determination, qualities that remained with her throughout her life.

She married the love of her life, Gary Johnson and together they made their home in the Staples area, where they raised three children. Their home was filled with love, laughter and the values that shaped generations to come.

She had a wit that could light up a room and a heart that embraced everyone she met. To her, there were no strangers - only friends she hadn’t met yet. Her warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on all who crossed her path.

She was spunky, sassy and bold - never afraid to speak her mind or stand up for what she believed in. Her vibrant personality brought energy and laughter to every room she entered and her confidence inspired those around her.

Her greatest joy and purpose in life were her children and grandchildren. She poured her love, time and wisdom into them, creating a legacy of devotion, strength and unconditional love. Her family was her world and she was the heart of theirs.

She loved nurturing the faith of young people as an assistant Youth Religious Education Coordinator. She found great joy in her work at the local floral shop and Greg Larson Sports. She loved following her grandchildren in all of their sporting activities, but she especially loved wrestling.

Cooking and serving others were among her greatest joys. Her kitchen was always open, her table always full and her home a place of comfort and welcome. Whether it was a holiday feast or a simple cup of coffee, she made everyone feel like family.

She built deep, meaningful relationships wherever she went, offering a listening ear, a helping hand and a loving heart. Her presence was a gift and her absence will be deeply felt.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gary; parents; mother and father-in-law, Lyle and Sara Johnson and her special nieces and nephews.

She is survived by three loving children:

•Tammy (John) Fritsche

•Kimberly (Joe) Pilgrim

•Michael (Tanya) Johnson

Her 12 cherished grandchildren:

•Jessica (Jeremy) Weinhandl

•Mike Weinhandl

•Jason (Beth) Gustason

•Cory Wilson

•Kara (Sarah) Fritsche

•Tony (LeAnn) Mack

•Raheem (Voss) White

•Beau (Kady) Pilgrim

•Josie (Robert) Jost

•Alyssa (Emjay) Ingersoll

•Maddison (Nathan) Leaderbrand

•Mitchell Vanalst

She was also blessed with 20 “perfect” great-grandchildren, each one a treasure in her eyes. She is survived by her siblings, Shirley Carry, James (Shirley) Loken and David Loken; and her beloved cat, Skittles, who brought her comfort and companionship.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and faith - a life well-lived and a soul well-loved.

Arrangements are by  Taylor Funeral Home, Staples. 

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