Ishpeming- Barbara Joan (Barb) Johnson, age 86, longtime Ishpeming resident passed away on Thursday, November 19, 2020, under the loving care of the staff at Marquette County Medical Care Facility.

Barb was born in Ishpeming, Michigan on April 17, 1934, a daughter of the late William and Elma J. (Kauppanen) Graham. Barb graduated from

Ishpeming High School, Class of 1952. She went on to receive her nursing certificate from St. Mary's School of Nursing in Rochester, MN. She then worked as an R.N. at Bell Memorial Hospital, Williams Clinic, and for Dr. James Tobin until her retirement. Shortly after her retirement her faith and determination were challenged with a disability following back surgery. She continued to demonstrate her faith and strength using her cane, walker, and wheelchair, never letting it slow her down.

But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint.- Isaiah 40:31

Barb was a member of Bethel Lutheran Church in Ishpeming, where she participated with the Bell Choir and was active with WELCA. She was also a member of VASA Lodge and the Retired Nurses Association.

Barb is survived by a son David (Julie) Johnson of Sparta, MI, two daughters, Sue (Ed) Anderson, of Ishpeming, and Julie Johnson Williamson of Milwaukee, WI, sister Gail Graham of Ishpeming, 3 grandchildren, Dr. Brian (Danielle) Anderson, of Ishpeming, Rachel (Stephen) Robinson of Dearborn, MI, and Brittany (Ryan) Hanna of Kent City, MI, 5 Great Grandchildren, Nora Jo and Barrett Anderson, Elliot and Nathan Robinson, and McKenzie Hanna. Barb is also survived by her special niece Lori (Glenn) Selmser.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Elma Graham, her husband Ed Johnson, and sister in law Barbara Rice and her husband Vernie.

Due to current restrictions regarding Covid-19, a service for Barb will be held at a future date.

Memorials can be directed to Bethel Lutheran Church 333 E. Ridge Ishpeming, MI 49849 in Barb's memory

Inurnment will take place at the Ishpeming Cemetery.

Barb's obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.