Ella Mae Johnson, 77, passed away Tuesday, July 15, at The Alverno where she had resided for several years. Honoring her wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. There will be no visitation or service as was her request. A private burial will take place at a later date. Lemke Funeral Homes is assisting the family with arrangements.
Ella was born on March 19. 1937 in Clinton, Iowa, the daughter of Givens and Pauline (Gladhill) Holt. She attended local schools completing the 8th grade. She married Eldon Johnson on April 28, 1955. They had two children, Gail and Rick. Ella and Eldon celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2005. Eldon preceded Ella in death in 2009.
Ella lived in Miles until Eldon's retirement when they purchased a house boat and lived, and hosted many fish fries on the Mississippi until Ella's health forced them to dry land. The couple then purchased a fifth wheel camper and began their travels across the United States for a couple years, then settling in Arizona for several years and finally making their final home in Camanche. Ella would make her final home at The Alverno to begin her battle with dementia.
Ella loved her big family. She made many nieces and nephews an afghan for their graduations and weddings. She loved reading a good romance novel, knitting, crocheting, cards and being outdoors. She was known for her fun loving nature and great sense of humor.
Ella will be sadly missed by her children - Gail (Gary) Cassaday, Rick (Deb) Johnson; grandchildren - Shawn, Brandi, Brad, Matt, Mitch and her three great grandchildren - Kaleb, Sophie and Skylar; Sisters - Georgia Issacoon, Kay Sherman, and Jean Yates with many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
Preceding Ella in death were her husband, parents, six brother in-laws, one sister in-law and a nephew.

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