Genevieve “Gen” Ann Johnson, 83, died Friday morning, January 27th, at home in Helena.
Gen was born on November 10, 1928 in Anaconda Montana, the daughter of Alice and Saini (Sid) Beausoleil. She was a welcomed addition to an already large and happy family. Full of spirit and energy, her life was full of wonderful adventures.
On January 26th, 1949 she married her high school sweetheart and life partner, Donald Albert Johnson. They were blessed with three children: Timothy, Terry, and Karen. After raising their children in Anaconda, they traveled the globe and resided in Guatemala, New Zealand, Northern California, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada. Eventually they retired and called Helena home.
Aside from being a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Gen was a creative decorator, exuberant dancer, and mediocre bowler (sorry mom), but could shoot a bow and arrow as well or better than anyone. She had a quick wit and never hesitated to speak her mind. She had an eye for fashion, and was always meticulous in her appearance. As a homemaker, she took great pride in the warmth and comfort of her home. She enjoyed preparing home cooked meals and there was never a meal without dessert.
After Don died in 2007, Clancy, their four legged furry friend, became Gen’s best friend. They kept each other company, and literally shared many meals together; dog food was not in Clancy’s vocabulary. In Gen’s last days, Clancy never left her side and was with her until her last breath.
She is survived by her children, Tim (Nancy) Johnson of Helena, Terry (Kieran) Johnson of Anaconda, and Karen (Steve) Hershbach of Anchorage Alaska; grandchildren, Kevin (Missy) Johnson and Keith (Danielle) Johnson of Helena, Kellee Flesch of Billings, Joseph (Midori) Johnson of Auburn Washington, Erin Vollstedt of Phoenix Arizona, Nicole Johnson of Anaconda, and Ann Marie Vollstedt of Reno Nevada; brother, Sid (Lois) Beausoleil; sister, Mary Hess; and sister-in-law, Jean Beausoleil of Anaconda; and her great-grandchildren, Darin, Dawson, Drake, Kaden, Ashton, Cody, Jesse, Ashlynn, Natalie, Margalo, Blake, and Mia.
Gen was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; brothers, sisters, and in-laws including: Bill (Thelma) Beausoleil, Alice/Jimmy (Bert) Patterson, infant brother, Madaline (Glen) Jensen, Aloysius/Wishy (Margaret) Beausoleil, George Hess, Leo/Fuzzy Beausoleil, and Deloris (Jack) Fitzpatrick.
The family would like to thank the Hospice of St. Peter’s Hospital, and her compassionate and attentive caregivers: Jasmine, Monica, and Stacy.
A mass celebrating Gen’s life and death will be held Thursday, February 2nd at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Valley Church located at 1502 Shirley Rd. Helena MT 59601. Services will be celebrated by nephew, Father Stephen Hess and Our Lady of the Valley Father Daniel Shea. Cremation has taken place and memorials are suggested to the Lewis & Clark Humane Society, P.O. Box 4455, Helena, MT 59604 or to the organization of your choice. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.aswfuneralhome.com
Service Schedule
Service Schedule
Share
Colleen Matosich says
Karen and family,
I am very sorry to hear about the passing of your Mom. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
I can’t help but think of all the times we sat and talked with your Mom in your kitchen on Hickory St. She was always so kind and had a wonderful and gentle smile. It is that smile I will remember when I think of Gen.
It’s a difficult time, but her love for her family will lighten your heart.
God bless,
Colleen Heintz Matosich
flossie says
An earth angel has been called home.
Gen was an incredible individual and will be missed.
My thoughts are prayers are with you all.
Irene Flesch-Waling says
Sending our very deepest sympathy in your loss of your dear grandmother.
Most Sincerely,
Irene Flesch-Waling, & Family
(Gail Flesch-Green, Brad Flesch, & Brian & Sheila Flesch).
Kellee says
Rest peacefully grandma…I will miss you…
Midge (Wind) Bentley says
My thoughts and pryaers are with you all during this difficult time. Gen was such a wonderful person, and a big part of my life in Anaconda–Imake the BEST brownies in town, thanks to Gen! Condolences also from my Dad, Svend and mom, Lillian. Mom is in the Alzheimer care unit in the Anaconda Rest Home, but know she would be saddened to learn of the passing of her friend.
Sharon Hencley says
I am so sorry to hear about your mother. I knew her and your dad from the Last Chance Casino where i had worked. They were both wonderful people. I did not know your father had passed away. My sincere condolences for both of them to the family.
Joseph Johnson says
So much has happened in this short time grandma…..
I miss you…
You and I had a special thing you amazing lady…
Forever in my heart.