Margaret Luella Schwarzhans Johnston
Nov 10, 1916- July 2, 2011
Our beloved Mother, “Maggie,” passed away peacefully at her daughter’s home in Caldwell, Idaho after a brief illness. She was born November 10, 1916 in Helena to Louis and Hannah Schwarzhans. She spent her life here where she was an active member of the community. She was a member of the First Christian Church, Daughters of the Nile, and was a scout leader. She was a dynamic woman who always had time for everyone in need. She loved picnics, family and friends, cooking, bowling, playing cards and singing in the choir. Her specialties were her birthday cakes and potato salad, which we will never forget. They were like no other. She was full of life and fun to be with. All of us will miss her very much and we thank God for giving us such a wonderful Mother. Her easy smile and compassion for everyone will be greatly missed by anyone whose life she touched.
She is survived by her five children, daughters, JoAnn Beckstead, Patti (Larry) Stevens, Janice Price, Barbara (Mike) Brown, and son, Andy (Jeri) Johnston, Jr.; ten grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Andy Johnston; her parents; sisters, Emmy Farlan, Caroline Rauser, and Ella Wong; brothers, Henry, Fred and Louis Schwarzhans; and a great-grandson, Brian Johnston.
A memorial service will be 1:30 p.m. Monday, July 25th at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home with a graveside service to follow at Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison, where Maggie and Andy will be reunited one last time. There will be a celebration of her life following the services at the family cabin at Rimini. The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations in Margaret’s name be made to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children, c/o Algeria Center, P.O. Box 1174, Helena, 59601 or The Susan G. Komen Foundation, by visiting: ww5.komen.org. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.aswfuneralhome.com.
Service Schedule
Service Schedule
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Crystal Shors says
Through all the wild times at the house on Stuart Street, I can’t remember Aunt Maggie ever getting cross with us. Not when we dragged out closets full of clothes for dress-up, or made a big mess in the basement, or pounded on the piano. Not even when we slid down the laundry chute, screaming until we landed in a basket of clothes. My thoughts are with my cousins.
Pat Schaefer says
Dear Johnston Family,
I will never forget your mom. She was like a second mother to me and always so kind. I spent many, many happy hours at your house.She will always be in my prayers and I will never forget her. I wish I could be there for the service but we will be in Iowa for a wedding. Love to you all
Tina says
I’m so sorry to hear of Maggie’s passing. I was the benefactor of many birthday cakes from her. My prayers go out to her family and friends.
Valerie Joe Petelin says
Maggie rest in peace! I so loved you growing up and playing in your house. You and Ella always made everyone laugh! It was wonderful seeing your 2 years ago. Love you! ValA