Betty Ann Johnson

Betty Ann Grace (Olson) Johnson, 72, of Alexandria, MN passed away suddenly at the Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, MN. Betty was born on August 29, 1942 in Alexandria, MN to Harry Olson and Sophie (Rusch). While growing up she spent her summers assisting the family with their garden and raising chickens for a local restaurant. After graduation from high school, Betty attended nurses training at the Miller Hospital in St. Paul, MN. Betty met Leonard John Johnson, Jr and they were married on September 21, 1963. Betty worked for hospitals and nursing homes in Mankato, MN and Marshall, MN. In 1968 they moved to Alexandria, MN. Betty then worked for Knute Nelson Memorial Home and was also doing critical care nursing for babies and children in their homes. She enjoyed her work immensely. Upon her retirement Betty and John took their trip of a lifetime to Alaska where they went salmon and halibut fishing. Betty loved spending time with her grandchildren, Adam and Amanda on her daughter Gwen's farm where they had a large garden. She could not wait to get there to spend time with them. Betty helped care for the kids and enjoyed teaching them cooking, gardening, and canning. Betty helped with her daughter LuAnn's fireworks stand during setup and with sales. Betty's brother Leonard spent a lot of time visiting and going out for meals. Betty loved to spend time with friends especially her best friend, Liz Meyeraan. They went to coffee and lunch, spent a lot of time laughing and going to the casino and bingo together. Betty loved sports of all types, especially boxing and football with her favorite team being the Vikings. Betty is survived by her daughters, LuAnn (Brent) Moore of Barney, ND and Gwen (Greg) Berry of Long Prairie, MN, two grandchildren, Adam and Amanda, that were her pride and joy; brothers, Raymond (Dianne) Olson of Brandon, MN and Leonard Olson of Alexandria; brothers-in-law, Mervin (Lucretia) Johnson of Alexandria, MN and Larry (Patty) Johnson of Rockford, IL. Betty was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, John and her parents and sisters, Marjorie Olson, Lenoira Martin, and Alice Ollikain and brother, Donald Olson A funeral service was held Monday January 19, 2015 at Bethesda Lutheran Church in Alexandria, MN with Pastor Jerry Lanes officiating. Interment will be at the Pleasant Valley Cemetery in Clotho, MN in the spring. Arrangements were with the Anderson Funeral Home

Betty Ann Johnson

August 29, 1942 - January 15, 2015