Bonnie J. Johnson

Bonnie Jean Johnson, one of two children of George J. and Hazel (Krause) Gerdes, was born on the family farm in Nemaha County, Nebraska on April 24, 1931. She was baptized at St. John’s (Stone) Lutheran Church on May 20, 1931 and confirmed at St. John’s on March 25, 1945 by Rev. Gustav Wienke.

On May 11, 1951, Bonnie was united in marriage to Gilbert E. Johnson by Rev. Goede at St. John’s Lutheran (Stone) Church. Three children were born to their union: Jacquelyn, Patricia, and Brent.

Bonnie worked at Darling Transfer after graduating from High School in Auburn, Nebraska in 1948. She also worked at Hemmingsen’s and at OA Cooper’s in Humboldt, Nebraska. Later, she worked at the ASCS office in Auburn. Bonnie also helped Gilbert with the farming operation until they retired.

As a lifetime member of St. John’s (Stone) Lutheran Church, Bonnie was active in Ladies Aid and other church functions. She enjoyed baking, sewing, and gardening, including canning the produce she harvested. She loved her family, and seldom missed sporting events of her kids, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

After suffering a severe stroke, Bonnie was hospitalized at Bryan West Medical Center in Lincoln, Nebraska. It was there she passed away, on Monday, April 27, 2015, three days after her 84th birthday.

Bonnie is survived by her husband Gilbert; daughters Jacquelyn & husband Steve Kelsay of Auburn, Patricia Johnson of Beatrice, and daughter-in-law Rhonda Johnson of rural Auburn; 5 Grandchildren: Chad & wife Carie Kelsay, Chris & wife Natalie Kelsay, Bristol & husband Matt Wenzl, Angie & husband Jereme Peppers, and Chelsea Johnson; 10 Great Grandchildren: Payton McCubbin, Harper, Avery & Rhett Kelsay, Brenton & Ainslee Wenzl, Tennyson & Jameson Kelsay, Pryce & Tinley Peppers, and brothers-in-law Ron Evans, Delbert Johnson & wife Bette, and sister-in-law Darlene Rohrs.

Preceding her in death was her son Brent Johnson, parents Hazel & George Gerdes, sister Georgia Evans, and brother-in-law Henry Rohrs.