Arlene Joan (Johnson) Johnson

Arlene Joan (Johnson) Johnson passed away Thursday January 28, 2021 at the age of 92. Born in 1928 in Milwaukee WI, at a young age her family moved back to Minnesota as they navigated the Great Depression. The true daughter of an educator, Arlene was born with a genuine love of learning which she would carry throughout her life. Her family eventually settled in St. Peter, MN, where she would finish High School and attend Gustavus Adolphus College.

She graduated with a degree in Economics and Psychology and a close friendship to the yearbook editor, Oreland Johnson. In 1952, she and Oreland tied the knot and started their life together in Minneapolis. Their children, Craig, Seri and Lisa followed soon after. Known for having seemingly boundless energy, Arlene was very involved in her family’s activities, her community, and finding success as a real estate agent.

She and Oreland retired in Red Wing, MN where they passed on the beauty of country life to their grandchildren. Again, she got involved in her community with everything from the Saucy Sisters cooking club to volunteering at Red Wing Arts. When she wasn’t busy at home, she and Oreland traveled the world. Frequenting San Miguel, Mexico, where she developed a talent for working with silver jewelry.

Arlene was a bright and fiery spirit with big opinions and an optimistic world view. Knowing all her children and grandchildren were college grads was her pride. She believed in living a full and interesting life of endless growth and discovery. She is survived by her three children, Craig Johnson (LuAnne) of Tucson, Seri Yeckel (John) of Bainbridge Island and Lisa Staples of Afton. Grandchildren Andrew, Mari, Hilary, Kelly, Madeline, Cole. Great-grandchildren Ben, Tate, Kieran, Soren and Sage.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to The Red Wing Arts. A memorial service will be held once it’s safe to gather so we can fully celebrate the bright and wonderful life of Arlene. Arrangements with the Mahn Family Funeral Home, Bodelson-Mahn Chapel, Red Wing. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com