Our Mom, Bessie Ann Johnson (Bess) passed away Friday, August 14th, 2020 surrounded by the love of her family at Agrace Hospice, Madison, WI. She fought fiercely to stay after suffering a stroke and seizure two weeks ago. She joined her love, Dwaine in heaven a few days before her 89th birthday. She was born August 20th, 1931.
Bess grew up in Lamont, WI. Daughter of Howard and Myrtle Prine. She married Dwaine Johnson at Wardsville PM church on May 19th, 1948. They lived near Truman in rural Darlingon where Dwaine farmed and they raised their 12 children. Dwaine preceded her in death January 2008. She continued to live on the farm until recently.
She is survived by her 12 children: Terry Johnson (Lorraine), Roger Johnson (Marlene), Patricia (Patsy) Knaebe (Dan), Tom Johnson (Kathy), Sherry Mosley (Harold), Sue Schluter, Nick Johnson (Sue), Tim Johnson (Fern), Christy Graham (Frank), Todd Johnson (Debbie), Renee Johnson (Scott Gross) and Doug Johnson (Heidi); She is also survived by 48 Grandchildren, 78 Great Grandchildren and 5 Great-Great Grandchildren. Her sister Carol Kieffer and brother Bob Prine, two sisters-in-law: Bev Prine and Sue Johnson; and three brothers-in-law: Lyle Schwartz, Chester Kamm, and David Johnson (Sandra).
In addition to her spouse Dwaine, she was preceded in death by her parents, three Grandchildren, Brad Johnson, son of Roger and Marlene Johnson, AJ and Deidra Gross, son and daughter of Scott Gross and Renee Johnson. One Great Granddaughter Elsie Grace, daughter of Craig and Amy Millie. One grandson-in-law: Derek Riemenapp, the late husband of Abby Bodden. Five brothers, Merlin Prine, Paul Prine, Phillip Prine, Toby Prine, Jerry Prine. Two sisters: Faye Prine and Jill Schwartz. Five Sister-In-Laws, Juanita Prine, Rosmary Prine, Becky Prine, Patsy Prine, and Ruth Kamm. Two Brothers-in-law: Bill Keiffer and Dick Johnson.
Bess was extremely active in the church her entire life. She served on several committees, including work with Missions. She held offices, played piano, and served on the Ladies Aid and Missionary Society. She was an active member of the Community Evangelical Free Church in Shullsburg, WI. Bess worked at the Lafayette County Manor for 34 years dedicating her life to helping others. She loved flowers, her birds, her beloved dog Trixie, and took pride in her gardens at the farm. She enjoyed antiques, both in her home and going out and about to find treasures. She liked to read, but most of all she enjoyed her family who will miss all the precious times at the farm.
A visitation will be held Friday, August 21, 2020 from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the First Baptist Church of Darlington (15691 CTH K, Darlington, WI). A private family funeral will be held Saturday, August 22, 2020. Burial will be in the Union Grove Cemetery following the funeral service.
The Johnson Family extends their gratitude and appreciation to Dr. Cleary, Tammy Boyle, Lafayette County Manor and both Platteville and Madison Agrace Hospice staff for their loving care and support. Words cannot express our thanks to all of you for being there for our Mom, Bess. The Lord Bless!!
Due to Wisconsin’s public health mandate and the family’s request, masks are to be worn during the duration of your visit inside of the church and that you practice proper social distancing guidelines.
