Carolyn Johnson

Carolyn Jean Johnson went to be with the Lord on 7/1/2023, in O’Fallon, MO, at the age of 84. She was born on December 11, 1938, in McPherson, KS to William and Mabel Brauer. She was raised on the family farm and graduated from Inman High school in 1957. She married Evan Johnson on July 20, 1957, in McPherson, KS, celebrating 65 years of marriage. They had three children, Merlyn (Debby) of Walton, Gregory (Penney) of Walton, and LuAnn (Kip Connor) of St. Charles, MO. 9 grandchildren; Steven (Courtney), David, Miranda (David), Whitney, Tisha, Taylor (Addison), Kalin (Kylie), Sydney, and Hannah (Tommy). 12 great-grandchildren; Sierra, Rylie, Connor, Evan, Ethan, Willie, Eve, Eli, Vivien, Adalynn, Martin, Levi, Annie, and Lucy. 2 great, great grandchildren, Caroline and Wesley.

Carolyn was loved and cherished by her children, grandchildren, family and friends. She was loved for her kind and welcoming nature, always ensuring that she had a sweet treat to offer you during your visit. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren loved spending time with her doing puzzles, playing games and baking. They knew and felt how much she loved them. Her cinnamon roll recipe is cherished by many. She enjoyed attending her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and was very proud of their accomplishments. She ensured she never missed watching her beloved KC Chiefs.

She started her cooking career in 1970 at USD 373 Walton Grade School, as a school cook, transitioning to the USD 373 Food Service Director in 1982, retiring in 1999. She was loved at Walton and known for being the best cook ever by the kids and teachers! This meant she saw Evan and her children while at work, as Evan was the Walton Elementary School Principal. She made many friends during her time as Food Service Director, who have remained lifelong friends and all say she was the best boss!

She spent one summer running the Walton Whistlestop Restaurant, with a friend, and was known for her exceptional comfort food and pies. She also held the title of the “First Lady of Walton” during Evan’s tenure as Walton Mayor.

After retirement, she loved antiquing with Evan. Her collections included depression glass that she eventually shared with her granddaughters. She and Evan traveled with friends to many places, with Alaska and Lake Tahoe being their favorite trips.

She volunteered her entire life in many ways with her congregation at Newton Church of the Brethren, the Newton homeless shelter, Walton Community in multiple ways, Senior Service leader of Walton and in 4-H when her children were young.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Evan, daughter-in-law Debby Johnson, brother Richard Brauer, sister Nadine Willems, brothers-in-law Dennis Fry, Donald Johnson, and LaVerne Willems.

The celebration of life services will be held at Petersen’s Funeral Home on October 14^th 10 am with burial at Walton Cemetery immediately following. Visitation will be on October 13^th, 5:30 – 7:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to the Walton Fire Department, c/o The Walton State Bank, PO Box 137, Walton, KS 67151.