Mary Lou Johnson

Mary Lou Johnson, age 85, lost her heroic battle with cancer on August 2, 2024, at Sanford Hospice House. She was a beloved mother, sister, and friend whose spirit touched the lives of many.

Born to Clemens and Carlotta Marick in Breckenridge on July 10, 1939, she grew up in rural Kent, Minnesota. Her formative years were spent surrounded by her siblings on the farm. That combined with the early loss of her mother instilled in her a strong spirit of resilience. After graduating from Breckenridge High School, she embarked on her life journey.

In 1958, she married the love of her life, Arlin Johnson and moved to Barnesville, Minnesota. Their union lasted 51 years, filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams such as moving to her dream house on Lake Lida. Together they raised two children, instilling in them the values that they held onto.

While raising her family, she pursued her passion for nursing by graduating from North Dakota State School of Science (NDSSS) in Wahpeton as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Her dedication to caring for others was evident throughout her life as she worked tirelessly to provide comfort and support to those in need.

After several years as a nurse, Mary Lou moved into a new chapter of her life. She collaborated with Charlie Trane where she utilized her keen eye for detail to appraise antiques and merchandise while also clerking Charlie’s auction sales with her sister, Vonnie. This role allowed her to combine her love for antiques with her entrepreneurial spirit.

Mary Lou is survived by her two children, Wade (Judi) Johnson and Tracey (Brad) Lindberg as well as two loving sisters, Carolyn (Arvin) Leabo and Vonnie (Wade) Hansen. She is also survived by two grandchildren, Paige (Dustin) Benda and Blaire (Brandon) Larson as well as one great-grandchild, Fiona. She is also survived by her partner, Bob Nelson. She was preceded in death by her parents, twin siblings Ronald and Jean, Arlin, sister Kathi, brother Louis, her second husband Doug Vaughn, and several nieces and nephews. Her legacy will live on through those who survive her as they carry forward the lessons in courage she demonstrated in her fight against cancer and the love she shared.

A memorial Mass of Christian burial for Mary Lou will be celebrated on, Saturday, August 17, 2024 at 11 AM at St. Leonard’s Catholic Church, 36 1st Ave., NE, Pelican Rapids, MN 56572, with Father Alan Wielinski officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior. Final rest will be in East Lake Lida Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Pelican Rapids Library in honor of Mary Lou’s memory.

Rest in peace, mom. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.