Joyce Grace Johnson

Joyce Grace Johnson (nee Zellmer), age 93, of La Crosse, WI, died Monday, August 9, 2021.

She was the daughter of the late Else and Frank Zellmer and grew up in the Spooner, WI area with 4 brothers and 5 sisters. Joyce is survived by her sister, Lydia Ferguson, and sister-in-law, Lorraine Zellmer, as well as her daughter, Nancy (Stephen) Johnson Russell of Manitowish Waters WI, son, Monte (Mary) Johnson of Roseville, MN, and daughter-in-law, Barb Johnson of Colorado Springs, CO. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren: Debbie (Josh) Ackerman, David (Jenny) Russell, Tom Russell, Jessie (Joey) Johnson, Chris Johnson, Taryn Johnson, Ryan (Audra) Keeney, Melanie K. Johnson, Merrick Johnson, and MacKenzie Johnson, as well as 16 great grandchildren.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Arthur L. Johnson, as well as her daughter, Melanie J. Johnson, and son, Timothy A. Johnson.

Joyce moved to La Crosse in 1949 and married Art on March 17, 1951. She wrote, “Art and I made sure to teach our children to be honest and hard working. All were expected to help in the orchard, the garden, and with chores”. At home, Joyce kept up her family holiday traditions of making Christmas Stollen, Cranberry Relish, and Hot Cross Buns. She canned all manner of vegetables and fruits, and spent many hours sewing. Joyce also worked outside the home with the UW-L food service and many years at one of the first Kwik Trip stores.

There were many family trips to visit relatives, including numerous trips out west to Montana. Later in life, she and Art enjoyed trips to Germany and Hawaii.

Bowling was her recreational love and she won quite a few trophies. She loved to sing and in her younger years even cut a record. She also liked to fish, dance, and play games. She was an active member of First Congregational Church for over 70 years.

Joyce was a good friend and neighbor to many, always willing to help. She also had a quick wit and sense of humor. She liked to say she was “Happy to have lived the Good Life”.

The family would like to recognize the good care for Joyce by the Eagle Crest Memory staff and her friend, Marilyn McElligott.

Memorial gifts can be directed to First Congregational UCC Church, 2503 Main Street, La Crosse 54601.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.