Ann Johnsen Obituary

I knew Ann when she lived in Ohio, and we attended St. Josheph High together. She was a very good friend, and I had lost touch with her, as I had with many from our class of 1957. Your family has my deepest sympathies.

I was privileged to work with Anne at Village Hall. She used her computer expertise to make the permit process more efficient and her people skills to make it more friendly. She always added a common sense approach to issues during discussions at our weekly department staff meetings. We all enjoyed her sense of humor which lightened the mood at just the right momment. More than a co-worker, I counted Ann as a friend. We shared a love of gardening and flowers. Once after a difficult week, I came home to find that Ann had left a plant with a note at my back door! For Steve and Stefanie, I wish I had words to express my sorrow and to ease your pain. I hope that the the memories expressed here by me and others will bring you comfort as you remember one of the great ladies.

I have known Ann for many years. She will be dearly missed. My condolences to Steve and Stephanie.

I have many fond memories of Ann and the Johnson family. She is a very kind, caring, and genuine person. She has always been like a second mother to me. Whether we "broke bread" over the holiday's or just stopped by to visit each other at our houses, there was always a special closeness and understanding, matched with laughter and fun.



When I was a youngster, I remember one time when my Mom, Maggie, Mary, Steven, Ann and I went to the American Legion Hall in the old conversion van. It was sort of a dimly lit place (at least from what I was accustomed to in my pre-pubescence) and I just wanted to be involved. Even though I am certain that they had more interesting people to talk to that night and better things to do, Ann and Steven stuck by me and guided me through the crowd, introducing me to all of their friends and peers.



As I recall, that was the first time I played pool. Thanks for your patience Steven!



Anyway, after what I considered to be a “rock-star” type of evening, we all piled back into the van and made our way down Wilmette Avenue. I can still remember the song that was playing in the car that night, “Edge of Seventeen”, by Stevie Nick’s. Did I say playing? Well, it was more like blasting and I loved every minute of it. Steven was behind the wheel and Ann was at his side in the passenger seat. At the time I did not know any of the words but I didn’t need to. Ann and Steven were singing the song, having a “blast” and I was right there with them humming in the background. The fun, understanding and the love they shared were amazing to me. Even as a “little-guy”, I recognized something that was very special and different with Ann and Steven, true love. No matter where Steven and Ann were, there love glowed and seemed to touch everyone in the room. On many occasions to me, it was my guiding light.



The influence that Ann had on me is more than words. She lent me a hand when I needed help. She offered me perspective when I had none. She picked me up when I felt down. Ann understood me and helped me to understand myself.



Ann, you will always hold a special place in my heart. I know someday we will break bread again. Until then with all my heart, I love you very much. Please give my dad a hug.





God Bless,



Justin “Jutsy” Krit



XOXOXOXOXOXO

A real lady. Saw all, knew all and helped everybody, in every way. Walking up to that counter will never be quite the same, ever again

The last of the ladies who would have made a great Victorian or a wonderful English Royal has gone to meet Julia Childs and show the heavenly bodies how it's done. A dearly beloved friend for many years whom I shall miss like the skin of my heart.



Susan and family

Dear Steven & Stefanie,

I was so sorry to hear of Ann's death.

Know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. If there is anything I can do to help you during this time of grief please let me know.

Sincerely,

Barbara Costlow

Steven, Stefanie. Words can't express how my heart aches for your loss. Ann will always be near and dear to my heart. I will miss her dearly. She was one of a kind. You are in my prayers. Stefanie, she was so proud of you and excited about your trip to California.

Linda