Obituary of Noel Beth Johnson

It is with great sadness that her family announces the passing of Noel “Beth” Johnson, beloved wife of Oliver Johnson on Monday, March 20, 2006 at the Foothills Hospital. A strong, independent, resourceful, exceedingly generous and loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Beth is survived by her husband Ollie, and her family: daughter Carol (Bryan) Smith, Darren, Todd (Penny), Tatianna, Hailey; Jason (Nancy) Danika; daughter Linda (Jim) Downey, Ryan (Dana); her son Craig (Donna) Johnson, Alayna, Lyndon; brother Robert (Chris) Staples; sister Norma Rairdan; eight nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, two infant siblings, and brother Rowland. Born into the pioneer farming family of Stan and Olive Staples in the Bindloss district, she became an expert at milking cows, riding horseback, seeding crops with a six-horse hitch, and tramping thistles in the header box in dry years. After secretarial college in Calgary, she worked at airports across Canada. Upon retirement in Calgary, Beth’s greatest sources of joy and entertainment were her grandchildren. Beth, suffering without complaint with rheumatoid arthritis, managed to maintain her contact with family and friends through daily phone chats. With Ollie’s help she maintained her independence in their home. At Beth’s request an organ donation has been made and no Service will be held. There will be a private family inurnment. In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Arthritis Society, #200, 1301 – 8 Street S.W., Calgary, AB T2R 1B7 Telephone: (403) 228-2571 or 1 (800) 321-1433. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Beth Johnson, a tree will be planted at Fletcher Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Crowfoot Chapel, 82 CROWFOOT CIRCLE N.W., CALGARY. Telephone: (403) 241-0044.