Mary E. “Mary Beth” Johnson
Mary Elizabeth “Mary Beth” Johnson, 68, of Independence, and formerly of Whitehall, died Monday, March 22, 2021, at Trempealeau County Health Care Center in rural Whitehall.
Mary Beth was born January 8, 1953, in Milwaukee to Dr. Jack and Cecile (O’Brien) End. She graduated from Dominican High School and later from Marquette University with a degree in nursing. Mary Beth met her husband, Curtis, while working Howard Young Medical Center in Woodruff. They were married September 13, 1980, after which they moved to the Milwaukee area and Mary Beth left nursing to start raising her family. They lived for a time in Eagle River and Park Falls prior to moving to Whitehall.
Mary Beth was a member of St. Peter the Fisherman Parish in Eagle River, St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Park Falls and St. John’s Catholic Church in Whitehall. Her hobbies included sewing and making quilts, and she spent many hours working in thrift shops, volunteering to help others. Her family remembers her most for the toughness she possessed. Despite a number of medical issues she faced over the years, she persevered through all, often with what most considered to be miracles.
Mary is best remembered as a loving mother and wife together with her zest for life. In her earlier years, she loved downhill and water skiing, one time spending part of an afternoon continuing to ski despite a broken leg. Her favorite place was Eagle River, where she and her four brothers spent much of their time on the water, enjoying the sunny days of summer. Mary Beth inherited her father’s grit, which along with growing up with four brothers, instilled a toughness, love of life and love for family that she carried with her throughout her life.
In her final days, Mary Beth was surrounded by her loving family, including her husband, children, grandchildren and grandpuppy, Riley.
Mary Beth is survived by her husband, Curtis A. Johnson of Independence; three children: William C. Johnson of Austin, TX, Maureen E. (Eric) Turner of Galesville and Kathryn J. (Eugene) Rubinchik of Maple Grove, MN; three grandchildren: Everette E. and Briella M. Rubinchik and Mackenzie M. Turner; four brothers: J. Michael End of Milwaukee, William T. End of Belgrade, MT, David B. End of Mequon and Robert F. End of Telluride, CO; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
In addition to her parents, Mary Beth was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Madelyn E. Turner.
Memorial services were held Thursday, March 25, 2021, at 1:00 p.m., at Jack Funeral Home in Whitehall. Friends may call one hour prior to the service.
Burial will be at Eagle River Cemetery in Eagle River at a later date.
