Miriam Johnson

miriam johnson
Our beloved mother, Miriam (Tudie) Bella Johnson went home to be with her Lord on Friday, November 5, while under the loving care of the Sanford Hospice House. Miriam was born at home on the family farm in Brandenburg Township on April 30, 1924, to Otto and Jesse (Coppin) Muehler. She attended school in Richland County and Interstate Business College in Fargo, ND. Mom was employed by Boeing in Seattle during World War II working on the B-17’s. Many years later, on September 22, 2005, when a B-17 named, “The Yankee Lady” flew into Hector International Airport, our mom was given an opportunity to get on board for a ride… which she dearly treasured. A German fighter pilot’s son sat next to mom on that flight which was a momentous occasion for her because he told mom that his dad flew to shoot down the B-17’s. On June 18th, 1950, Miriam married Melbourne Oswald Johnson and together they have 3 children: Loni Coppin, Blair Johnson, and Melba (Barry) Wenthin. Our mom was an adventurous spirit. Once she flew over the family farm in a two-seater, cloth airplane. Her dad witnessing this event said, “I wouldn’t doubt if that was Tudie.” On September 2013, at the age of 89, mom completed one of her bucket list items by getting a ride on a fully-decked out Harley from a total stranger. Wish we knew his name…. Mom enjoyed fishing, playing cards – especially Pinochle, Yahtzee, crocheting, square dancing, and watching the Minnesota Twins. Mom made the absolute best home-made French fries and sugar cookies. Mom is preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Mel Johnson. Her sisters; Alice and Lois, and her brothers; Elroy, Alvin, Floyd, Kenneth, and Harold. Mom we already miss your infectious smile, your kind heart, your sense of humor, your tender love. You leave us a rich legacy of wonderful memories. We will always love you Mom. The family wishes to thank all the staff from Bethany Gables, and especially all the angels who tirelessly and tenderly cared for our mom at Sanford Hospice House. THANK YOU. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Sanford Hospice House, 820 4th St, N. Fargo ND 58122.  

View current weather.

Memories Timeline

Guestbook

  1. Dear Melba, Barry, Blair and Loni, Our hearts are with all of you at this time. I can’t help but smile when thinking about Miriam. She and Mel were our next door neighbors for over 30 years. We had a lot of fun at our neighborhood parties. I remember having to convince her that our Barry was going to be a great husband for her Melba. I am sure she and Lois are having a great time now that those two extremely close sisters are in Heaven together. She is a wonderful friend and our family will miss her. Earl and Bev and family

  2. Melba, sorry to read the news of your mom’s passing. Great write up on her. I didn’t know your parents well, but my mom and dad sure enjoyed their company. My condolences to your family. Wow, 97, she had a pretty good ride my friend, and now she gets to hang out with your Dad again.

  3. Melba, Barry, Blair, & Loni,

    Your Mom sure had a wonderful life. We all know as we age life gets harder especially after the death of her sister, Lois, and her husband,Mel. Herb and I always enjoyed our summer visit with your parents even if only was a few hours.

    Sorry we couldn’t be in person for the memorial service but I enjoyed the streaming of the service. I too like your Mom enjoyed singing, “ What a friend we have in Jesus”!

    No matter the age, it’s always hard to lose a parent.

    Cousin,
    Lois and Herb


Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle

Accessibility Tools
hide