Helen Johnson, 95

Helen Irene Johnson, 95, died Sunday, July 8, 2012 at Grand Arbor in Alexandria.

Helen was born September 26, 1916 in LaGrand Township, Douglas County, the daughter of Sam H. and Ida (Oines) Johnson. She grew up on a dairy farm on McKay Avenue and graduated from Central High School in 1935. She attended Moorhead State Teachers College, and taught in country schools for eight years. In 1945, she began teaching in Alexandria and taught second grade at Washington and Lincoln schools for the next 30 years. In addition to teaching, Helen cared for her mother and her Uncle John Oines.

She loved wildflowers, gardens and spending time mowing her lawn with a push mower, which she did into her 80s.

Helen’s faith was very important to her. She joined the First Congregational Church in 1931, and was a member all of her life. She was also a life member of the Douglas County Historical Society, member of Retired Educators, and belonged to the Sons of Norway. Helen volunteered at Knute Nelson in the coffee shop for more than 20 years and more than 3,000 hours.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and sister, Marie Kostreba.

Helen is survived by her nieces and nephews, Jerome (Rita) Kostreba of Farwell, Mary Anderson of Hopkins, James (Anne) Kostreba of Sartell, Margaret “Yasha” (Helge) Sandburg of Rainer, Washington, Gene (Laurice) Kostreba of Avon, William Kostreba of Bowlus, and Julie (Robert) McGrath of Wyoming, MN; many great and great-great nieces and nephews.

Memorial service will be held on Monday, July 16, 2012, 11:00 a.m. at the First Congregational Church in Alexandria. Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery.

Arrangements are with Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria; www.andersonfuneral.net.

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