OBITUARY: Helen Johnson

Helen Johnson (nee Bruckner), originally from Rhinelander and most recently residing in Crandon, passed away Wednesday Aug.10 after a brief illness. Helen was born in Rhinelander Mar. 22, 1936 to William and Ella (Bergman) Bruckner. Helen attended Rhinelander schools, in high school was a cheerleader and member of the basketball team and graduated with the RHS class of 1954. She married Burdett Johnson in Sept. 1955 and together they raised their five children Carrie, Scott, James, Jennifer, and Peter. Helen started working at a young age in her parent’s grocery store, followed by Reeve’s Food Lane and Frasier’s Plumbing and Heating. Helen and Burt moved to Las Vegas in 1988 where she worked for the next 15 years at Palace Station Casino. Helen returned to Wisconsin upon her retirement and eventually settled in Crandon. Though challenged by various health issues, Helen continued to live independently until her passing.

In retirement, Helen was an avid bingo player at area casinos.

Helen is survived by her children, Carrie (Richard) Field of Las Vegas NV, Scott of Madison, Jennifer Carlson of Lilly, James (Diane) of Neenah, and Peter of Greenwood SC; grandchildren,Danielle Carlson and Irving, Evan and Benjamin Johnson; a sister, Jean Dye and a brother, William (Jean) Bruckner. Helen was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 40 years, Burdett in 1996; her sisters, Beverly Scroble and Phyllis (Eugene) Martin.

As stated by Helen’s nephew, “Helen always seemed to find a way to enjoy her life and often saw humor in many challenges. Her laughter was so infectious to all those around her. I will always remember her warm smile and how she filled a room with her presence.”

Friends and relatives are invited to a memorial luncheon Sunday Aug. 21, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Lucerne Room at the Best Western Crandon Inn and Suites located at 9075 E. Pioneer St. in Crandon. A catered lunch will be provided. Condolences can be sent to Jim Johnson, 2245 Gateway Meadows Lane, Neenah, WI 54956 dljohnson1973@gmail.com. (Verkuilen-Van Deurzen Family Funeral Home)